The Youth Integration Forum in Zanzibar, launched under the leadership of Dr. Shogo Mlozi Sedoyeka and supported by various partners including the Government of Zanzibar, local universities, NMB Bank, KCB Bank, and more, aims to equip Tanzanian graduates with the skills and mindset needed to exploit development opportunities arising from regional integration, particularly within the East African Community (EAC). The program was officially inaugurated at the University of Dar es Salaam and is set to cover university colleges across both the Tanzanian Mainland and Zanzibar.
The rationale behind this initiative lies in the recognition that despite the potential benefits of EAC integration, there exists a lack of understanding and interest among the youth about the opportunities and advantages that come with it. The forum seeks to address this gap by providing specialized training to young graduates, empowering them to become confident and competitive players in the region’s development landscape. The goal is to nurture a generation of skilled and capable individuals who can actively engage in and contribute to the economic, social, and political progress of Tanzania and the broader EAC region.
During the inaugural event, Deputy Minister for Labor, Youth, Employment, and Youth, Maulid Mwita, emphasized the importance of the program in enhancing the livelihoods of Tanzanian youth and furthering the nation’s development agenda. The involvement of prominent partners like the Government of Zanzibar, financial institutions, and educational bodies highlights the collaborative effort towards this common goal.
By bridging the gap between formal education and practical skills needed for successful participation in EAC integration and development processes, the Youth Integration Forum seeks to dispel the lack of interest and understanding surrounding the potential benefits of regional integration. It acknowledges that the success of EAC integration depends on the active engagement of the younger generation, who need to be equipped with the right knowledge and tools to harness the opportunities presented by closer regional ties.
Overall, the Youth Integration Forum in Zanzibar serves as a platform for empowering Tanzanian graduates to take the lead in the country’s development journey, promoting a strong sense of participation, awareness, and competence in the context of regional integration and cooperation.