What is the ESPJ-II program?
The Second Education and Skills for Productive Jobs (ESPJ-II) is a $300 million program financed by the International Development Association* (IDA). Its goal is to strengthen skills development systems so that more young people can graduate with job-relevant skills and find better employment opportunities.
The program builds on previous World Bank–supported initiatives in Tanzania’s education sectors. It will be implemented by the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology in close coordination with other government bodies and industry partners.
What are the program’s objectives?
The main objective of ESPJ-II is to increase the number of graduates with the skills needed for better and more inclusive jobs in Tanzania’s priority economic sectors.
The program will directly benefit approximately one million people (at least 45% female), including students, workers, and instructors. Key benefits include:
- More graduates with market-relevant skills that respond to the needs of employers.
- Stronger partnerships between training institutions and industry, leading to better curriculum design and more work-based learning opportunities.
- Improved employment outcomes, including higher job placements and better long-term earnings for graduates.
- Expanded access to skills training for youth and women, helping to address skills mismatches in the labor market.
How will the program achieve these goals?
ESPJ-II will focus on two key areas:
- Increasing the number of skilled workers for jobs in priority sectors by improving the quality and relevance of technical and vocational education and training (TVET).
- Strengthening the TVET system's capacity to deliver quality, market-responsive training at a national scale.
This will involve working with a range of institutions across Tanzania, including TVET colleges, secondary vocational schools, and higher education institutions, to ensure training programs meet regional labor market needs.
How does this program align with Tanzania’s national priorities?
ESPJ-II directly supports Tanzania's national agenda to enhance skills, productivity, and job creation. It is aligned with the Second National Skills Development Strategy (NSDS-II) and the country’s long-term DIRA 2050 vision, which both emphasize expanding productive employment. The program is also a key part of the World Bank Group’s Country Partnership Framework for Tanzania (FY2025–FY2029), which focuses on strengthening human capital to drive inclusive economic growth.
How will the funds be disbursed?
This program uses a Program-for-Results (PforR) financing model. This means that funds are only disbursed after specific, pre-agreed results have been achieved and independently verified. These results, known as Disbursement-Linked Indicators (DLIs), include tangible improvements such as:
- Increased enrollment and graduation in priority technical programs.
- Greater participation of women in skills training.
- Expansion of work-based learning and employer partnerships.
- Improved job placement rates for graduates.
How is the integrity of the financing ensured?
The World Bank has a fiduciary duty to ensure that funds are used only for their intended purposes. This project includes multiple layers of protection:
- Program-for-Results financing instrument: As noted above, disbursements are explicitly tied to verified results.
- Strict policies and guidelines: The project is governed by the Bank’s Anti-Corruption Guidelines, procurement regulations, and financial management requirements. All expenditures are subject to audit.
- Monitoring and supervision: Implementation is closely monitored through regular reporting, on-site supervision, and independent audits.
- Accountability: The Bank’s Integrity Vice Presidency (INT) independently investigates any credible allegations of fraud or corruption. If wrongdoing is found, the Bank can suspend disbursements, cancel funds, and debar responsible firms or individuals.
How can citizens provide feedback or raise concerns?
A Grievance Redress Mechanism (GRM) will be available for communities, trainees, and stakeholders to submit feedback or complaints and receive timely responses. Channels include:
- Tanzania Government GRM: Toll-free at 0800 110057 and 0800 110058, or through a paid call at 0739-000038
- World Bank Grievance Redress Service (GRS): www.worldbank.org/GRS
- World Bank Accountability Mechanism: accountability.worldbank.org
- World Bank Tanzania Hotline (for project-related issues and complaints): tanzaniaalert@worldbank.org or call +255 22 216 3777
Who can be contacted for more information?
- Government of Tanzania: The Ministry of Finance: info@hazina.go.tz and +255 26 216 0000.
- World Bank Tanzania Country Office (general inquiries): +255-22-216-3200