“Skilled youth play an important part in driving economic transformation,” said Mr. John Ulanga, Director of Diplomacy and Economics at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation, at a conference titled “The Role of Youth in the Energy Sector and Its Transition in Africa” at the University of Dodoma (UDOM).
The East African Crude Oil Pipeline (Eacop) Project arranged the event to encourage young people to get involved in the energy sector.
According to Mr. Ulanga, courses in engineering, environmental preservation, and renewable energy are being offered by universities and technical schools throughout Africa. He encouraged youth to take advantage of these chances to develop their abilities and increase their employability.
“Renewable energy is a global priority, and youth can position themselves for employment or self-employment by attending conferences, workshops, and training programs, contributing to national income and economic growth,” Mr. Ulanga, stated.
Additionally, Ulanga highlighted programs like the African Renewable Energy Initiative (AREI) and the Jobs for Youth in Africa initiative of the African Development Bank, which seek to enable young professionals to assume leadership roles in the energy industry.
According to Guillaume Dolout, CEO of Eacop, the project makes multiple attempts to give young people employable skills. “We have been providing university and technical college students in Tanzania and Uganda with energy-related training, both in-person and online,” CEO of Eacop, stated.
“While some of these graduates have been working on the project, others have obtained certifications that allow them to work in the industry or launch their own businesses anywhere in the world,” Dolout continued.
It is believed that the Eacop project, which will move crude oil from Hoima, Uganda, to Chongoleani, Tanga, will spur the development of local talent.
Another important player in involving young people is the Tanzania Petroleum Development Corporation (TPDC), which owns a 15% share in the project.
Mr. Derick Moshi, Director of Planning and Investment at TPDC, stated that they are working to educate students on the value of gas and energy in the world economy. In light of the rapidly evolving technologies in the energy sector, Moshi stated, “We are encouraging young people to focus on research and innovation.”
Speaking on behalf of TotalEnergies, which owns 62 percent of Eacop, the project’s goal is to leave a legacy of local energy professionals, said Mrs. Getrude Mpangile, Director of Legal and Relations.
“This is a chance for students at universities and technical colleges to get involved with the industry and develop the skills necessary to continue its growth once the project is finished,” Mrs. Getrude Mpangile, said.
One of the beneficiaries, Nicolaus Shukuru, a student at Arusha Technical College (ATC) studying Electrical and Biomedical Engineering, stated that the training has given him the tools he needs to pursue a job in the energy industry.
“These abilities will enable me to generate opportunities for both myself and others, guaranteeing my ability to make a contribution to the industry and support myself,” Shukuru stated.
The Eacop project is expected to provide a substantial contribution to Tanzania’s economic development and youth empowerment. Other partners include the Uganda National Oil Company (UNOC), which holds a 15 percent share, and China National Offshore Oil Corporation (CNOOC), which holds an 8 percent stake.
The energy sector is well-positioned to provide up new opportunities for Tanzanian youngsters to thrive in a vibrant and revolutionary business by utilizing partnerships and training.
