Dar es Salaam. As the government takes various measures to address the challenge of unemployment, such as revising curricula to better align with the job market, there is an urgent need for the CEO Roundtable of Tanzania (CEOrt) to broaden its scope and enhance its activities.
In his speech over the weekend, Tanzania’s Vice President, Dr. Philip Mpango, stressed the critical need for collaboration between the public and private sectors to ensure that the country’s youth are well-prepared for the changing job market.
He made these remarks while representing the President of the United Republic of Tanzania, Dr Samia Suluhu Hassan, at the CEOrt Year-End Ceremony held at the Hyatt Regency Hotel in Dar es Salaam.
Dr Mpango stressed the need to support youth in green technologies, back research and development, and establish technology innovation hubs.
He also highlighted that the CEOrt must expand its operations to create more job opportunities, provide hands-on training, and offer capital for emerging businesses, particularly those led by recent graduates.
“The government’s initiative to revamp curricula is crucial, but the role of the CEOrt is equally important,” Dr. Mpango said in a press release made available to the media on Sunday, December 1 this year.
“We need to ensure that youth are not only academically prepared but also have practical skills and financial backing to thrive in their careers or as entrepreneurs.”
This call to action reflects the growing recognition that youth unemployment in Tanzania cannot be solved by education alone.
While educational reforms are a step forward, the need for practical training, mentorship, and funding for young entrepreneurs is critical to bridging the gap between education and employment.
By engaging emerging businesses, particularly in sectors like entertainment, technology, and sports, the CEOrt can offer fresh opportunities for the next generation.
Dr Mpango also emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts between the government and the private sector to establish a green economy that supports sustainable development and creates jobs for young people.
As Tanzania moves forward with policies that encourage business growth, it is essential for business leaders to step up and invest in the youth, ensuring they are prepared for the future workforce demands.
While the government continues to focus on educational reforms, expanding the initiatives of the CEOrt is crucial to solving the youth unemployment crisis.
Providing practical experience, capital, and opportunities for young Tanzanians will help them succeed and contribute to the nation’s long-term growth.
Together, the government and the private sector can pave the way for a brighter future for Tanzania’s youth.
For her part, the CEOrt Executive Director, Ms Santina Benson, reflected on the organization’s key accomplishments, particularly in fostering discussions with diplomats and development partners to transition from aid dependency to a focus on trade and industry.
“This year has been a turning point for CEOrt,” she stated, adding: “We have delved into essential areas such as energy efficiency, human capital development, and succession planning, all aimed at driving sustainable growth.”
The event also celebrated individuals who have made significant contributions to Tanzania’s socio-economic progress, with a posthumous tribute to Lawrence Mafuru, the late Executive Secretary of the Planning Commission.
As Tanzania advances toward Vision 2050, the partnership between the government and the private sector continues to be vital for the country’s transformation.
The over weekend’s event also celebrated individuals who have made significant contributions to Tanzania’s socio-economic progress, with a posthumous tribute to Lawrence Mafuru, the late Executive Secretary of the Planning Commission.
Mr Mafuru was promoted to glory on November 9, 2024 at Apollo Hospital in India, where he had been receiving treatment.
