Apprenticeship Opportunity in the Tourism Industry For Youth

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Apprenticeship Opportunity at the National College of Tourism

The hospitality industry is one of the fastest-growing sectors in Tanzania and across the African continent.
With the increasing demand for skilled professionals in hotels, resorts, and restaurants, training institutions play a vital role in preparing young people for rewarding careers.
The National College of Tourism (NCT) is at the forefront of this mission, proudly serving as a training partner in Tanzania’s first government-supported Quality Apprenticeship Programme in the Hospitality Sector.

This initiative not only equips young people with hands-on skills but also helps bridge the gap between classroom learning and real-world work experience.

The National College of Tourism Apprenticeship Program

The NCT Apprenticeship Programme is designed to provide young men and women, particularly those from low-income backgrounds, with the opportunity to acquire professional skills while working in the hospitality industry. It gives both academic knowledge and practical training, ensuring that students graduate with the confidence and ability to meet industry standards.

Since its pilot in 2015, the program has been jointly developed by the Government of Tanzania and the International Labour Organisation (ILO). With support from leading hotels and resorts, the program has evolved into a model of public-private collaboration, combining structured training with valuable on-the-job experience.

The attained milestone

The impact of the program is already visible:

119 apprentices have successfully graduated with an apprenticeship certificate approved by the National Council for Technical Education (NACTE).
Currently, 41 apprentices are enrolled, undergoing six months of theoretical and practical training at NCT campuses in Dar es Salaam and Arusha.
After completing the classroom phase, students continue with 18 months of workplace training in 15 leading hotels and resorts across Tanzania.

This unique blend of classroom learning and real-world exposure ensures that apprentices graduate with practical skills, professional discipline, and industry-relevant knowledge.

Public-Private Partnership For Greater Outcomes

The success of the apprenticeship program is built on collaboration.
The pilot phase was funded by the Government of Norway, with official support from the Government of Tanzania, the Hotels Association of Tanzania (HAT), the Tourism Confederation of Tanzania (TCT), and the Association of Tanzania Employers (ATE), alongside technical assistance from the ILO.

Today, the National College of Tourism proudly funds new intakes, including the November 2019 cohort of 38 apprentices, reaffirming its long-term commitment to empowering Tanzania’s youth.

Apprenticeship opportunity through the ILO

The International Labour Organisation (ILO) defines apprenticeship as a system by which an employer undertakes, through a formal contract, to employ and systematically train a young person for a trade over a fixed period. The apprentice, in return, commits to working in the employer’s service during that period.

Key features of the NCT apprenticeship model include:

Workplace-based learning: Apprentices are supervised directly by employers.
Youth-focused training: Designed specifically for young people seeking careers in hospitality.
Skill acquisition: The main goal is to master a trade or profession.
Systematic training: Learning follows a structured curriculum.
Formal contracts: Both the apprentice and the employer are bound by a formal agreement.

This structure ensures that training is consistent, practical, and aligned with global standards.

Qualifications for joining the college

NCT offers apprenticeship opportunities at different qualification levels.

Basic Certificate Programme

Applicants must have completed the Certificate of Secondary Education Examination (CSEE) with passes (minimum grade D) in at least four subjects, including English (excluding religious subjects). Candidates must also pass a qualifying test from the Institute.

Technician Certificate – NTA Level 5

This certificate encompasses Year One and comprises 14 modules, distributed across two semesters within an academic year.

Semester duration: Each semester runs for 15 weeks.
Total duration: 30 weeks of full-time study, plus 12 weeks of industrial field attachment.

This structured learning prepares students to transition smoothly from the classroom to the workplace.

Where the Program Is Offered

The Apprenticeship Programme is available across NCT’s campuses:

Bustani Campus
Temeke Campus
Arusha Campus

Each campus is equipped with the necessary resources to provide both theoretical knowledge and hands-on training.

Why Choose NCT’s Apprenticeship Program?

Practical Learning: Unlike traditional education pathways, apprenticeships focus on real-world experience.
Industry Recognition: Certifications are approved by NACTE, which lends credibility to graduates in the job market.
Employment Opportunities: Many apprentices secure jobs in leading hotels and resorts immediately after completing their apprenticeship.
Support for Youth: The program prioritizes students from disadvantaged backgrounds, creating equal opportunities.
Contribution to National Growth: By producing skilled professionals, NCT directly contributes to the growth of Tanzania’s tourism and hospitality industry.

Conclusion on the apprenticeship opportunity

The National College of Tourism Apprenticeship Programme is more than just a training course—it’s a life-changing opportunity. Combining classroom learning with industry experience equips young people with the skills they need to succeed in the competitive hospitality sector.

With strong support from the government, international organizations, and the private sector, NCT continues to empower Tanzania’s youth while strengthening the tourism industry. For young people eager to build a future in the hospitality industry, this apprenticeship is a stepping stone to a rewarding and fulfilling career.

Applications are open now! Don’t miss the chance to join this unique program and become part of Tanzania’s growing hospitality workforce.

Grab The Apprenticeship Opportunity at the National College of Tourism