ZANZIBAR: ZANZIBAR is planning to strengthen its community information and communication technology (ICT) centres to improve digital-skills training and expand opportunities for young people in employment and entrepreneurship.
Minister for Communication, Information Technology and Innovation, Dr Mohammed Ali Suleiman, said the government was committed to improving the quality of training and facilities at the centres to help young people develop practical technological skills.
He made the remarks during a tour of community ICT centres in Kiembe Samaki, Bwefum, Fumba, Mwera, Mkokotoni, Tunguu and Kitogani, where he inspected facilities and listened to concerns raised by teachers and students.
“The government will continue strengthening the centres to make them effective hubs for developing digital skills that respond to labour-market demands and enable young people to explore self-employment opportunities,” Dr Mohammed said.
He stressed the need for suitable teaching and learning facilities to ensure that the centres provide quality training and equip young people to take advantage of opportunities in the digital economy.
During the visit, teachers Fahmi Rajab Abdallah and Fauzia Shukurani Haji outlined challenges affecting the delivery of training, including shortages of teaching equipment and limited opportunities for professional development.
They called for support to access further training and professional courses, as well as modern equipment to improve their teaching methods and respond to changing technological demands.
Their concerns highlighted the importance of investing not only in facilities but also in the skills of instructors responsible for training learners.
At Tunguu ICT Centre, student Fatma Seif Khamis said the training had given her practical knowledge that could help her pursue self-employment and improve her income.
“The training I have received has equipped me with practical knowledge that will help me identify self-employment opportunities and increase my income,” she said.
She encouraged other young people to take advantage of the training opportunities offered at community ICT centres.
The planned improvements are intended to strengthen the centres’ capacity to provide relevant ICT training and widen access to digital skills among young people across Zanzibar.