VOCATIONAL training institutions must adopt innovative, market-driven teaching methods to equip graduates with the skills needed by today’s industries, the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology has directed.

Speaking in Dodoma yesterday, Dr Fredrick Salukeke, director of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), said training centers must align their programmes with the evolving needs of youth and the labour market. 

He was opening a leadership training session for vocational college heads, organised with support from Belgium’s development agency, Enabel.

"Our goal is for vocational graduates to enter industries, mining, and commerce as job-ready professionals," he said, urging institutions to shift from traditional approaches to skill-focused, practical training.

Salukeke emphasised that employers increasingly demand graduates who can immediately contribute to operations, highlighting the need for practical, hands-on education.

Enabel project advisor Thomas Aikaruwa said the initiative backs government efforts to upgrade vocational colleges into centers of excellence. The project focuses on building modern infrastructure, establishing state-of-the-art workshops, supplying up-to-date equipment, and strengthening instructors' capabilities.

Beneficiary institutions include VETA colleges in Mwanza and Tanga, along with FETA colleges in Nyegezi (Mwanza), Pemba, and Kigoma.

Launched in 2023, the project is set to run until 2026/27 and is expected to significantly enhance teaching facilities, staff competence, and student skills.

Othman Zaid Othman, coordinator at the Pemba Authority for Vocational Training (Amali), said vocational education remains central to reducing unemployment, urging graduates to apply their skills to drive local economic development.