Aga Khan University Master’s Degree students explore experiential learning at Veta Dar es Salaam
What you need to know:
- The visit aimed to enhance understanding in areas such as digital literacy, curriculum alignment, assessment practices, and gender equity.
Dar es Salaam. The Vocational Education and Training Authority (Veta) in Dar es Salaam recently hosted 13 Master's Degree students from the Aga Khan University’s Institute for Educational Development, East Africa (AKU IED, EA) for an insightful study tour focused on experiential learning.
The visit aimed to enhance understanding in areas such as digital literacy, curriculum alignment, assessment practices, and gender equity.
Veta Dar es Salaam is renowned as Tanzania's leading vocational training institution, offering courses in eight main fields: automotive engineering, mechanical engineering, civil engineering, printing, electrical engineering, fashion design, IT, and related subjects.
The school caters to approximately 1,500 students in long-term programs and 6,000 in short-term courses annually.
During the tour, Veta Head Joseph Mwanda highlighted the institution's commitment to fostering a supportive learning environment, which he attributed to Veta's ongoing success.
“Our approach at Veta focuses on laying a solid foundation from admission, combined with continuous sensitization on contemporary issues such as entrepreneurial skills, substance abuse, mental wellness, and life skills.
We instill a sense of purpose and responsibility in our trainees from day one, supported by a well-structured curriculum and hands-on training that promotes high engagement and achievement,” said Mwanda.
Accompanying the students were Dr Omukami Howard, Dr Winfred Kithinji, and Dr Winston Massam from AKU IED, EA. In his remarks, Dr Howard praised Veta's integration of theory and practice.
“Observing the synergy between theoretical knowledge and practical application at Veta was truly inspiring. The expertise and dedication of the tutors were evident, with practical exercises enhancing peer learning and problem-solving skills.
Veta’s well-equipped workshops and laboratories offer a robust environment for students to acquire real-world skills essential in a competitive job market,” Dr Howard commented.
Dr Kithinji noted the positive atmosphere at Veta, emphasizing the sense of community among students and staff.
“It was the human element that stood out during our visit. The camaraderie and enthusiasm among the students and staff were remarkable. Veta has cultivated a learning community where everyone feels valued and supported,” Dr Kithinji said.
Dr Massam highlighted the impact of the visit on understanding vocational education and experiential learning.
“Our experience at Veta has been transformative, challenging our preconceptions and broadening our perspective on vocational education.
Witnessing how theory is effectively translated into practice at VETA has provided a model of excellence that we aim to emulate in our programs at AKU IED, EA.
This experience underscores our responsibility as educators to prepare students for the evolving job market,” Dr Massam remarked.
The visit underscored the importance of bridging the gap between theory and practice, offering valuable insights into how vocational training can shape effective educational programs.
