Very recently, a respected journalist shared on X (formerly Twitter) an interesting encounter with a bodaboda driver – a motorcycle taxi operator on the streets of Dar es Salaam. Unlike the usual banter about traffic or weather, this driver shared something striking: he was a university graduate with a degree in procurement, who had turned to the motorcycle business not by choice, but by necessity.

This story is far from unique. According to Tanzania’s statistics outfit, every year, between 800,000 and 1,000,000 Tanzanian graduates enter a job market competing for only 250,000 formal jobs annually. The question of what lies ahead for young people in this environment looms large.

For some, the answer lies in entrepreneurship. For others, formal employment remains the safer bet. On January 30th and 31st, these contrasting views will take center stage at the University of Dar es Salaam, where 20 university students will compete in the live finals of the EU-sponsored Debate Contest.

The motion—“Having your own business guarantees a more sustainable income than a regular job”—taps into a critical question: How can young people secure their financial futures in a rapidly changing economy?

The competition is goes beyond just a platform for argument, but a stage for growth. Designed to enhance critical thinking, collaboration, and communication skills, the Debate Contest encourages participants to engage deeply with Tanzania’s socio-economic challenges. The contest is part of EU Delegation’s commitment to empowering youth and fostering dialogue on development issues.

After receiving 296 applications, the journey began with a Social Media Debate Challenge, where 56 participants shared their views online, reaching thousands of young people through Instagram, Facebook, and X (Twitter). Out of the 56, 20 finalists—8 men and 12 women—were selected and are ready to take on the live debate stage.

Hosted at the University of Dar es Salaam’s Library Auditorium, the event is expected to draw an audience of over 400, including students, civil society representatives, private sector leaders, and members of the media.

The competition will span three days, beginning with a training session for the finalists, followed by semi-final rounds, and culminating in the grand finale. Beyond the intellectual challenge, the stakes are high: the top three speakers will win a fully sponsored trip to Poland, while the best teams will receive cash prizes and certificates signed by the EU Ambassador.

Stay tuned.