DAR ES SALAAM, July 13 (NNN-DAILYNEWS) — Tanzania is embarking on a transformative initiative to build 100 specialized vocational education-based secondary schools nationwide, aiming to bridge the skills gap and foster economic growth.
Representing Vice President Dr. Philip Mpango at the Economic Society of Tanzania’s congress held in Dar es Salaam on Friday, Education Minister Professor Adolf Mkenda outlined the government’s plan to integrate academic and vocational education.
This move, part of President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s commitment to a skills-based education system, seeks to equip students with practical skills in addition to academic knowledge.
“We are planning to build 100 secondary schools that will offer academic education concurrently with vocational education, ultimately producing students skilled in both areas,” said Prof. Mkenda.
He emphasized the need to address the skills mismatch between job seekers and employers, aiming to reduce unemployment and boost local production.
At the well-attended event that brought together academicians and education stakeholders to discuss the matter, Prof. Mkenda highlighted the significance of investing in agriculture, noting that despite employing nearly 60 percent of the workforce, the sector generates only 26 percent of the Gross National Income.
Efforts include a substantial budget increase for irrigation and extension services to enhance productivity.
Regarding economic development, EST member Professor Samwel Wangwe stressed the role of economists in advising the government.
“Economists must play a pivotal role in educating the public and advising the government on running the economy for positive outcomes,” Wangwe emphasized.
The congress, heralded by the theme “The Role of EST in Development of the National Economy,” convened economic professionals from academia, the public sector, and the private sector. — NNN-DAILYNEWS
