DAR ES SALAAM, Nov. 23 (Xinhua) -- Tanzania is intensifying efforts to expand technical and vocational education as part of a broader strategy to equip young people with practical skills essential for the country's fast-growing economy, an official has said.

Abdulhamad Masai, a board member of the Vocational Education and Training Authority (VETA), said on Saturday that the government currently operates 80 VETA colleges nationwide, while construction of an additional 65 centers is underway across various districts.

Speaking at the 28th graduation ceremony of VETA Mikumi College in the Morogoro region, Masai said the government aims to have at least 145 fully operational colleges by 2026.

"This initiative is part of our strategy to produce skilled professionals for different sectors," he said.

Masai urged communities to take advantage of opportunities provided by VETA and encouraged graduates to utilize government loans available through local councils to support their career development.

VETA Mikumi College Principal Marynurce Kazosi highlighted the need for further infrastructure improvements, citing limited classroom space and outdated practical training equipment.

She emphasized the importance of upgrading facilities and acquiring modern machinery to ensure youth gain skills that meet current labor market demands. ■