Micro-credentials: Tanzania’s answer to the skills recognition gap
Tanzania is developing a framework for micro-credentials to formally recognize skills acquired through practical experience. This initiative aims to bridge the gap for skilled workers who lack traditional academic qualifications.
Why it matters
Recognizing informal skills can improve labor market mobility and economic inclusion for vocational workers.
At Keko in Dar es Salaam, plumbing expert Peter Tarimo has built a reputation over the years for solving problems that many people would struggle to fix.
From leaking water systems to difficult installations, his knowledge has largely been acquired through hands-on experience. He knows the tools, understands the systems and most importantly, knows how to get the job done.
But last year, his practical expertise was not enough to secure him a role in a project he believed he was qualified to handle. The reason, he says, was simple: he did not have the required formal academic credentials.
“I knew I could do the work. I had done similar jobs for years, but because I did not have the required academic papers, I was left out,” he says.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in