Solar Learning Tanzania
Solar energy for a sustainable future in Tanzania
Self-determined into the future
Kenya
Initial situation and challenges
Tanzania faces several challenges: Only around 46% of the population has reliable access to electricity, and even less in rural areas. Many young people have little chance for vocational training or a regular income. Young people from poor backgrounds and young women are particularly disadvantaged.
At the same time, the solar sector is growing strongly – but there is a lack of well-trained specialists. State vocational training centres such as the Vocational Education and Training Authority (VETA) in Mbeya offer affordable courses, but often without practical training opportunities or the right materials. Sustainable change requires more: practical training, real job opportunities and access to modern technologies.
Our approach
In the Solar Learning Tanzania project, we are working with the state vocational school in Mbeya and local project partners to develop practical training in the field of solar technology. Together, we are developing a two-year training programme and two short courses that will train around 280 solar technicians by 2028.
In addition, a solar company is being set up at the school to provide practical experience and generate income for training. Through scholarships and thanks to accommodation and meals on campus, young people from remote or poorer regions can also receive targeted support.
The project strengthens existing state structures and facilitates entry into the profession. At the same time, it promotes the expansion of decentralised solar solutions in the region – climate-friendly, locally anchored and future-oriented.
Project start with secured partial financing
Annual budget
Current project phase
Implementation partner
- Steven Gama, Mbeya Vocational School
- Richard Ndendya, Project Management and Networking
Targets 2025-2028
- 280 young people receive practical training in the field of solar technology.
- The young people earn a living income through their professional work in the solar sector, which opens up economic prospects for them and strengthens their social participation.
- The successful development of a solar company at the vocational school in Mbeya helps to anchor practical training content and at the same time creates an economic basis to support the project.
Effect
Young people in Tanzania receive solid training in solar technology – creating new prospects for themselves and their community. With every system installed, they bring electricity to villages, schools and businesses – and helping to overcome poverty and protect the climate.
In remote regions of Tanzania, solar energy means more than just light: it enables education, improves the water supply and generates income. This makes solar energy the key to local development – decentralised, climate-friendly and sustainable.
Would you like to find out more about this project?
280 young people
