Nearly two thirds of Tanzania’s population is under 25 years of age. This presents a tremendous opportunity for human capital. To fully exploit this potential, it is essential to invest in the skills and education of youth. A recent study by International Labour Organization (ILO) reveals that 21.1% of youth (15 - 29 years) in the labour force in Tanzania are unemployed, a rate higher than in most sub-Saharan countries.
More than 800,000 young Tanzanians enter the job market each year, but only about 40,000 find formal jobs. The job market outlook for Tanzania is still negative, mainly because of the lack of skilled workers and the mismatch between skills supply and demand. Therefore, job creation is increasingly seen as a priority by all stakeholders.
The debate looks at youth unemployment challenges and potential solutions in round table and plenary discussions with about 80 representatives from public and private sector, youth, civil society and international partners. It also discusses key factors of successful labour market measures, including the Swiss dual system of education VPET (Swiss Vocational and Professional Education and Training). The Swiss VPET system – based on a close collaboration between private and public sector - enables two to four year apprentice trainings to young people, combining work experience at an enterprise together with practical and theoretical learning at vocational training colleges.
The debate is moderated by Aidan Eyakuze, Executive Director at Twaweza. Notable panelists include Mr. Hassan Mshinda, Director General at COSTECH; Ms. Mary Kawar, ILO Country Director and Mr. Thomas Katebalirwe, Ag. Director TVET, Ministry of Education, Science, Technology and Vocational Training. Other panelists include representatives from public and private institutions, NGOs and international actors.
The Embassy of Switzerland through its Development Cooperation already contributes together with the MasterCard Foundation to the SNV project “Opportunities for Youth Employment” (OYE), which aims at sustainably increasing youth employment and income through tailored technical, vocational and life skills trainings.
Prior to the open debate, a Swiss delegation of Swiss Ambassadors and Heads of Cooperation from Southern and Eastern African countries have visited various places to learn more about the situation of youth employment in Tanzania. The delegation got introduced to the Buni Innovation Hub at COSTECH, a private sector employer that recruits VETA (Vocational Education and Training Authority) graduates, and participated in a youth meeting at the University of Dar es Salaam.
