Analysis of Animal Health and Production Training Gaps in Tanzania

This study was conducted in selected areas of Tanzania, including Arusha, Dar es Salaam, Iringa, Kagera, Lindi, Mwanza, Morogoro, Tabora and Zanzibar. The aim was to explore the essential competencies required for livestock technician graduates to excel in the competitive job market. The study was conducted on a range of livestock stakeholders, including employers, societal members, the Ministerial Departments and Agencies (MDAs), the Livestock Training Agency (LITA), private livestock training tutors, livestock technician students and graduates working in the livestock value chain. A total of 594 participants responded to a semi-structured questionnaire, and data were analyzed using the MS Excel computer program. The results show that extension services (89%), certification (67%), and Regulation and coordination (51%) are the most prevalent functions in various organizations. Furthermore, practical knowledge in production techniques (19%), processing and value addition (17%) needs to address the functional aspects of the industry, whereas input supply (14%) necessitates an understanding of the supply chain management and procurement processes. Although less frequent, research and consultancy (4%, training and capacity building (3%) are essential for fostering innovation and continuous professional development. The proficiency of competency among the graduates is 52%, with an estimated skill gap of 48%, which highlights the potential areas for improvement. The curriculum review should focus on strategies to improve the missing competencies. The study revealed that the majority of graduates are employed as livestock field officers (82%), sales representatives (12%), assistant livestock tutors (4%), and Artificial Insemination (AI) technicians, comprising 2%, reflecting a high demand for this role. Based on the findings, the existing competencies do not meet the current labour market needs by a significant margin. Half of the necessary competencies required by employers are lacking in the current workforce. This gap highlights the need for improved animal health and production training programs to align graduates' competencies with the demands of the labour market.