Beyond the classroom: A Masterclass in Experiential Learning at VETA-Dar es Salaam

Bridging the gap between theory and practice is essential in shaping educational programmes. Vocational training institutions offer a unique opportunity to observe firsthand how this is done. Together with master’s students from the Aga Khan University’s Institute of Education Development, East Africa (AKU IED, EA), a tour was held to study the Vocational Education and Training Authority (VETA) in Dar es Salaam. VETA Dar es Salaam is Tanzania’s top vocation training school, with an annual student base of 1,500 students for the longer programme courses and 6,000 for the short courses. At VETA, theory is authentically translated into practice, a signature modus operandi central to all AKU IED, EA programmes. “As educators, we have a responsibility to prepare our students for the ever-evolving world of work. VETA has shown us a model of excellence that we can strive to emulate,” write Omukami Howard, Windfred Kithinji and Winston Massam, faculty at AKU IED, EA.