The Role of IPPE and IPOSA in Empowering Youths with Industrial Skills towards Poverty Reduction in Tanzania

Abstract

This paper examines the role of Integrated Post Primary Education (IPPE) and Integrated Program for Out-of-School Adolescents (IPOSA) programmes in empowering youths with industrial skills towards poverty reduction. The paper explains how IPOSA and IPPE equip youths with pre-vocational skills to enable them participate in income generating activities. The study was guided by two research questions whereby the first question investigates ways IPOSA and IPPE can contribute to youth industrial skills in attaining middle-income economy while the second question examines how both programmes help Tanzanian youths in tackling poverty. The paper used qualitative approach employing interviews and documentary review were administered. The study population comprised of lecturers, programme coordinators, resident tutors, learners and Adult Education officers. The selection was based on the availability and willingness of key informants who participated in the study by providing information regarding the programmes. The findings reveal that IPOSA and IPPE programmes equip youths with skills such as in soap, batik, apron and candle making and food processing. These skills allow youth to participate in income generating activities and earn some income thus improve their livelihoods. The study recommends for integration model of both theory and practical oriented skills to make education system more practical. Finally, the Institute of Adult Education should collaborate with the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology in reviewing education policies to reflect the current needs of industrial economy and compete in the labour market hence curb youth unemployment.