VETA, Chinese institute determined to collaborate in skills training

The Vocational Education and Training Authority (VETA) and the Chinese Yellow River Conservancy Technical Institute (YRCTI) have expressed determination to collaborate in skills training and development in Tanzania.

The resolve has been shown through a Letter of intent signed today, 11th December 2023, at the VETA Head Office in Dodoma, between the VETA Director General, Dr. Prosper Mgaya on one hand and the YRCTI Party Secretary, Ms Zhou Baobing, witnessed by officials from both parties.

Speaking during signing of the letter of intent, Ms Baobing highlighted the areas of collaboration including international students’ programs; Chinese and Vocational Skills’ project; Scientific research and innovation projects; and building a specialized school in vocational education and training.

 “VETA students and teachers may be taken to China to receive training in technical skills. The duration of the training will be determined. Yellow River may cooperate with relevant Tanzanian vocational and education training centres in scientific research and innovation projects including educational, teaching programs, skills upgrading/upscaling and cultural exchange programs,” she elaborated.

On his part, the VETA Director General, Dr. Mgaya expressed great appreciation YRCTI for its willingness to collaborate with VETA, hoping for Tanzania to borrow a leaf from the institute’s long-time experience in vocational and technical training. YRCTI was established in 1929, more than 90 years in skills training, with 16 schools covering 65 specialties and more than 20,300 full-time students. 

He said, VETA would also appreciate receiving support in enhancing practical training in its centres workshops through use of simulators and other modern methods for practical training. 

The signed letter of intent stipulates that parties will develop concept documents on the intended cooperation (including MoU). 

“After further consultations, the parties will sign an agreement that enumerates the obligations of both parties and other matters in relation to the said cooperation,” states the document.

It elaborates that the parties will, in accordance with the terms outlined in such an agreement, give full play to their advantages in training, scientific research and innovation and jointly provide this cooperation programme to Tanzanian teachers and students, so as to form an innovative talent training model and cultivate international talents of both countries.