Samia skills formalisation programme surpasses target

DODOMA: THE Samia Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) Programme, which seeks to formalise skills acquired outside conventional training systems, has surpassed its first-phase target by 25 per cent.

During the first phase implemented between June 2025 and July 2026, the programme targeted to reach 14,400 beneficiaries in 11 regions but attracted 18,008 people, representing 125 per cent achievement of the target.

Following the success, the government is set to roll out the second phase of the programme next month, expanding it to 10 more regions to reach more Tanzanians with certified vocational competencies.

The expansion aims to improve employability, promote self-employment and provide formal recognition to individuals who have acquired skills through informal learning, work experience or apprenticeships.

Director General of the Vocational Education and Training Authority (VETA), CPA Anthony Kasore, said the second phase would cover Mwanza, Mara, Kagera, Geita, Mbeya, Rukwa, Songwe, Katavi, Lindi and Pwani regions, targeting 18,000 apprentices.

He said the first phase exceeded expectations after 18,008 beneficiaries were reached against the initial target of 14,400 apprentices.

CPA Kasore attributed the programme’s success to President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s commitment to expanding access to vocational education and creating economic opportunities for Tanzanians.

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He said the government was implementing initiatives that enable citizens to acquire recognised skills to improve their chances of securing employment, establishing businesses and creating jobs.

“Through this programme, many Tanzanians with practical skills but without formal qualifications are being given an opportunity to have their competencies assessed and recognised,” he said.

CPA Kasore made the remarks during a ceremony to present certificates to apprentices from Mtumba Constituency under the programme held in Dodoma yesterday.

Mtumba Member of Parliament Anthony Mavunde said the initiative was transforming informal skills into nationally recognised qualifications, enabling skilled workers to compete effectively in the labour market.

He said VETA certification would enhance confidence among employers and increase employment opportunities for artisans.

“This programme ensures that skilled artisans are formally recognised. A certificate from VETA gives employers confidence in the holder’s competence and opens wider employment opportunities,” Mr Mavunde said.

He pledged to expand the programme to benefit 10,000 young people in Mtumba Constituency by 2030, describing the first 100 graduates as pioneers of a broader skills development drive.

Mr Mavunde commended VETA for responding to changing economic needs through innovative approaches and practical skills training aligned with Tanzania’s Development Vision 2050.

He urged graduates to take advantage of the government’s policy that reserves 30 per cent of public procurement opportunities for youth, women and people with disabilities, saying certified artisans would have greater opportunities to benefit from the initiative.

Earlier, VETA Manager for Assessment and Certification Mr Bwire Ally said 186 applicants registered for the programme in Mtumba Constituency, with 110 eventually undergoing competency assessments.

He said all assessed apprentices met the required standards and qualified for certification in 10 trades, including carpentry, masonry, electrical installation, plumbing, welding, tailoring, motor vehicle mechanics, catering and hospitality.

The RPL programme allows individuals who acquired skills through informal employment, apprenticeships or personal experience to undergo assessment and receive nationally recognised certification, improving their access to employment and entrepreneurship opportunities.

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