TPSF’s synergy call to close skills gaps

Geita. Tanzania Private Sector Foundation (TPSF) Chief Executive Officer, Raphael Maganga has urged private sector companies to collaborate with the education institutions to design programmes that will support efforts in closing the skills gap in the country.

Mr Maganga, who was speaking during a ceremony to welcome 40 new graduates for on-the-job training by Geita Gold Mining Limited (GGML) over the weekend, said such programmes as internships will empower youth in the job market.

He said the collaboration is key to bridging Africa’s mining skills gap.

“By providing internships and other opportunities, we can bridge the gap between education and employment and ensure that our youth are equipped with the skills they need to succeed,” he said.

He commended GGML for the internship programme which provided both opportunity and skills for the graduates.

He said the rise of mining in Africa has led to a greater need for skills that are scarce on the continent over the past two decades, depleting the talent pool.

The situation is exacerbated by an ageing workforce and the unpopularity of mining careers due to challenging conditions.

“The talent shortage is particularly acute in countries such as Angola, Nigeria, Tanzania and Ghana. To address this, there’s a need for improved training facilities and programmes, with the private sector playing a crucial role in funding and shaping curricula to meet industry needs. Collaboration between industry and educational institutions is key to closing Africa’s mining skills gap,” added Mr Maganga.

GML senior vice president for Africa Business Unit, Mr Terry Strong, said the company’s training programme will give unemployed graduates the opportunity to gain work experience that will complement their studies and help them compete in the job market.

“With several successes so far, GGML is committed to continuing the on-the-job training programme as an important recruitment tool,” he said.