Dar es Salaam. The Vice President Dr Emmanuel Nchimbi, has called on the private sector to collaborate with universities and invest in research, particularly in science and technology, to enhance the quality of education and research across the country.
Dr Nchimbi made the remarks during the launch of a partnership programme between educational institutions and employers, held at the Julius Nyerere International Convention Centre (JNICC) in Dar es Salaam.
He noted that through the initiative, the private sector could contribute to educational development by funding research and supporting students in various fields aligned with labour market demands.
The Vice President further urged both educational institutions and the private sector to consider the rapid global advancements in science and technology when implementing the programme.
He emphasised the importance of collaboration in identifying critical skills required now and in the future, particularly in fields such as science, technology, innovation, medicine, engineering, and mathematics, to enable young people to compete and secure opportunities both locally and internationally.
“Collaboration between educational institutions and industry is essential in today’s world. Universities can no longer operate as isolated centres of theory, nor can industries thrive without a skilled workforce equipped with modern technology and competitive expertise,” he said.
Dr Nchimbi highlighted that the government has strategically prioritised the development of skills, knowledge, and employability among young people and graduates, recognising that sustainable national development is unattainable without a well-educated and capable workforce.
He also noted ongoing reforms in educational policies and curricula at all levels to establish a flexible, inclusive system responsive to talents, career aspirations, and real labour market needs while keeping pace with technological changes and global competition.
The programme, a fulfilment of a campaign promise by President Samia Suluhu Hassan in 2025, seeks to align training with priority national sectors such as energy, information and communication technology (ICT), and value-adding industries.
It lays a solid foundation for producing graduates capable of employment, entrepreneurship, and meaningful participation in national development by shifting from a theoretical education model to one focused on practical skills, innovation, and productivity.
The launch was attended by government officials, members of parliament, religious leaders, development partners, employers, industry leaders, heads of institutions, university officials, and students.
