A Major push to combat youth unemployment and bridge the gap between academic learning and job market needs has been launched in Geita Region, the initiative designed to equip young Tanzanians with practical skills and hands-on experience through vocational training and collaborative educational framework.

Spearheaded by industry players including the mining sector, tt the forefront is Geita Gold Mining Limited (GGML), which yesterday introduced its 2025/2026 graduate and critical skills internship programme. The programme seeks to address long-standing concerns that many graduates, despite holding academic qualifications, face difficulties securing employment due to a lack of industry-relevant skills.

Charles Masubi, GGML’s Senior Manager for Human Resources, said the initiative reflects the company’s long-term commitment to developing Tanzania’s human capital.“Our goal is to contribute to Tanzania’s workforce development by providing young professionals with meaningful exposure to industry practices and standards,” Masubi said.

“We take pride in seeing our interns go on to succeed within GGML and in other organisations. It’s a contribution that has long-term value for both individuals and the region’s development trajectory.”First piloted in 2009 and relaunched in 2017, the internship programme has so far benefited 258 graduates from across the country. Of these, 41 percent are women and 59 percent are men. Notably, 87 graduates—representing 34 percent of participants—have secured full-time employment at GGML, while others have advanced to roles in various sectors of the national economy.

The 2025/2026 cohort will receive placements across both technical and administrative departments. The programme aligns with national development priorities in education, employability, and inclusive economic growth. A strong emphasis is placed on promoting female participation in traditionally male-dominated fields, reinforcing GGML’s commitment to gender inclusivity.

The official launch event was attended by regional and national leaders, signalling the importance of public-private collaboration in addressing youth unemployment and promoting economic empowerment.As it enters its latest cycle, the GGML internship programme stands as a model for how strategic partnerships between government and industry can create meaningful opportunities and build a resilient workforce for Tanzania’s future.