Determinants of employability and earnings of vocational education and training graduates in Tanzania

This study examined the contribution of socio-demographic characteristics on employability and earnings among graduates of vocational education and training of Tanzania Mainland. Data was drawn for a survey of 4,923 graduates of years 2005-2008 that was conducted by Vocational Education and Training Authority (VETA, 2011). Multinomial logistic model was used in estimating the probability of getting first employment (employability) upon having a demographic characteristic. Also; multivariate regression analysis was applied in studying the determinants of earnings. The results show that age, sex, marital status and vocational certification are important in determining employability. Also, age, sex, specific and general labour market experience, daily working hours and marital status (for male graduates) are important determinants of earnings of this population.The findings of this research have led to recommendations of addressing gender inequality and strengthening entrepreneurship education. Also; policies on protection of youth employment should be strengthened