Skillika Programme Ignites Practical Skills Revolution at UDSM, Empowering Job-Ready Graduates
By Renancy Remmy, CMU
A bold new push to transform graduate employability took centre stage at the University of Dar es Salaam as the “Skillika – Grow Your Skills” Youth Programme was officially launched, marking a significant step toward bridging the gap between academic training and the realities of the modern job market.
Implemented by Exact Manpower Consulting Ltd., the Skillika initiative is designed to equip university students with practical, hands-on competencies that complement academic knowledge and enhance career readiness.
The launch event convened a broad spectrum of stakeholders, including university leadership, development partners, and students from the University of Dar es Salaam Business School, the School of Economics, and the College of Agriculture and Food Technology.
Representing the Deputy Vice Chancellor-Academic, Prof. Rose Upor, the Guest of Honour, Prof. Flora Magige, who is the Principal of the College of Natural and Applied Sciences (CoNAS) underscored the urgency for higher education institutions to produce graduates who are not only academically grounded but also equipped with practical and transferable skills.
She noted that the Skillika Programme integrates essential competencies such as communication, teamwork, leadership, and critical thinking—skills increasingly demanded in today’s dynamic labor market.
“This initiative demonstrates how universities and industry partners can collaborate to prepare graduates who are ready to navigate the complexities of the modern workforce,” she said.
Prof. Magige further emphasized the importance of financial independence among young people, highlighting the program’s focus on financial literacy and entrepreneurship. According to her, such knowledge empowers graduates to move beyond job-seeking toward job creation, thereby contributing to broader economic transformation.
A comprehensive platform supporting students from university to professional life
Earlier, the Project Coordinator of the Skillika Program from Exact Manpower Consulting Ltd., Tusekile Mwambetania, described the initiative as a comprehensive platform supporting students’ transition from university to professional life.
She noted that in an increasingly competitive job market, academic credentials alone are insufficient without a blend of technical expertise, soft skills, and personal development.
“Skillika is designed to nurture adaptable, innovative graduates capable of making meaningful contributions to society,” she said, adding that the program prioritizes experiential learning through structured, real-world engagements that sharpen problem-solving abilities and professional confidence.
Delivering opening remarks, the Dean of the University of Dar es Salaam Business School, Prof. Omari Mbura, commended the initiative for its timely response to the persistent skills gap among graduates.
He urged students to take full advantage of the program, noting that it offers a rare opportunity to acquire competencies that extend beyond the classroom and position them competitively in the labor market.
Echoing similar sentiments, the Principal of the College of Agriculture and Food Technology, Dr. Mkabwa Manoko, described the launch of Skillika as a milestone in enhancing the relevance of higher education. He noted that the partnership with Exact Manpower Consulting Ltd. reflects a shared commitment to aligning academic programs with industry needs and preparing students for real-world challenges.
Dr. Manoko added that by integrating practical training, life skills, and financial literacy, the program provides a sustainable pathway for students to unlock their full potential and contribute meaningfully to national development.
Complementing theoretical knowledge with practical exposure
From the School of Economics, the Dean, Prof. Beatrice Mkenda, stressed the importance of complementing theoretical knowledge with practical exposure. She observed that while academic learning forms a critical foundation, it must be reinforced with applied skills to produce graduates capable of addressing complex socio-economic challenges.
“Initiatives such as Skillika are essential in shaping innovative, solution-oriented professionals,” she noted.
The launch also created an interactive platform for students to engage with facilitators and stakeholders, gaining deeper insights into the program’s structure and anticipated impact. Participants expressed strong enthusiasm for the opportunity to enhance their employability, build practical competencies, and better prepare for their future careers.
As Tanzania continues to prioritize a knowledge-driven and skills-based economy, the Skillika Youth Programme stands out as a strategic intervention – empowering young people with the tools, mindset, and confidence needed to thrive.
By strengthening the link between higher education and the labor market, the initiative signals a transformative shift toward producing graduates who are not only qualified, but truly job-ready.