VICE President, Dr Philip Mpango has urged the Economic and Social Research Foundation (ESRF) to direct its research efforts on the job market and ways in which young people can align with employment opportunities.

Addressing delegates at a national conference to commemorate ESRF 30th anniversary in Dar es Salaam yesterday, the VP underlined that Tanzania, like many other countries in sub-Saharan Africa, has struggled to capitalise on the benefits of a growing workforce.

Upwards of 0.8m to 1m graduates from local universities and vocational colleges enter the job market annually, he stated, noting that formal job vacancies stand at 30,000o to 90,000 when the public sector is joined with private sector job openings.

“This stark disparity is tied to a critical mismatch between the quality of graduates and the skills demanded in the formal job market,” he said, addressing trends among youths.

Many young people form social groups that lack purpose, while others are entering relationships with significantly older partners, he said, pointing out that young men, in their pursuit of an easier life, often find themselves in relationships with older women, or getting involved in gambling activities.

He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to work with ESRF and other institutions to conduct research that will support economic growth and development.

“The government recognises the significant role the ESRF plays in driving development and enhancing our economy,” he said, while Prof Fortunata Makene, the ESRF executive director affirmed that the think tank is fully prepared to undertake research in specific critical areas.

These include the job market and ways in which young people can benefit from such opportunities, she said, affirming that ESRF expects to work closely with stakeholders, including public agencies and various local and international universities.

This will help to strengthen the capacity of our experts in conducting impactful research for the nation, she stated, stressing the foundation’s pride in its active participation in development initiatives and its ongoing efforts to foster economic growth.

“Our commitment to enhancing the economic landscape of Tanzania is unwavering, and we are eager to contribute to solutions that address the challenges faced by our youth,” she added.