NACTVET always held an exhibition after a two-day TVET Skills conference, and that provided the platform for showcasing a wide range of exciting opportunities to technical and vocational training institutions and employers to further educational establishments. The 2023 TVET Skills Exhibition, that took place from 16th – 22nd May, 2023 at the Sheikh Amri Kaluta in Arusha, Tanzania, and was held for the fourth time in a row. Many stakeholders echoed their sentiments over the Council performance in organizing the event, held for the first time in a new locale but producing wonderful results over the other three previously TVET exhibitions.
Why does this TVET Skills event matter to stakeholders? One would think aloud, but it is quite simple; the rationale for the annual momentous event was embedded in the quest to addressing growing career or skills mismatch among graduates. Apparently, there was no compatibility between what graduates pursued over the years and their on-site career. It was through skills development stakeholders’ engagement that the younger generations could get help to navigate through their dream jobs as long as they were sure to get acquainted with labour market-based training.
The desirable event was an answer also to graduates who are devoid of necessary competencies around their fields, much as it was a desire to see graduates landing their lucrative jobs. However, the pace of skilling the youths remains an urgent demand as TVET providers get to the drift of the truth that they don’t produce enough fit graduates to compete in the global labour markets. It is through skills showcasing that employability prospects of tomorrow need these moments to rectify what is within the means.
It is widely uncontested that upskilling and reskilling remains part of contemporary skills strengthening models for on-site workers as the industry transition to a diversified role that requires above-board flexibility. According to analytical perspectives, in this changing landscape, both unskilled, conservative, and lopsided workers will have no place in the labour markets, and it is with this importance that TVET skills events are conducted thereafter. Their presence will undoubtedly change the narratives of every worker.
In his address, the Guest of Honour, Hon. Prof.Adolf Mkenda (MP), and Minister for Education, Science and Technology, on behalf of the President of the United Republic of Tanzania,Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan, commended NACVET for organizing such effective exhibitions. He noted that TVET Skills Exhibitions’ crucial for stimulating skills development could not be overemphasized for the Nation to remain competitive in today's rapidly changing global economy. The Guest of honour reiterated that it was essential that individuals acquire the skills necessary to thrive in the workforce. Thus, skills development has become increasingly important for individuals and societies alike. He also articulated that the Government was finalizing curricula that would transform the education system in Tanzania.
A total of 136 institutions showcased varieties of products and services that they offer and were accommodated in 162 booths, in categories of stakeholders that included training providers, employers/industries, successful graduates, government agencies, entrepreneurs, and companies.
