The nexus between career guidance services and soft skills acquisition among university students in Tanzania

The study explored the role of career guidance services on soft skills enhancement among university students in Tanzania. The study examined different types of career services offered, effectiveness of career guidance services on soft skill acquisition, and the challenges facing the effective provision of career guidance services. Guided by Social Cognitive Career Theory, the study adopted interpretivism research philosophy using a qualitative research approach. The study used focus group discussions and interviews methods to collect data which were analyzed thematically. Results indicated that, advanced communication, leadership and teamwork, adaptability, creative thinking, problem-solving, emotional intelligence and computer skills were frequently highlighted as essential skills. Also, the study found that career guidance and counseling services assisted students in identifying their career interests and capabilities, changed their entrepreneurial mindset, improved their communication process, and enhanced their problem solving skills. Limited funds, few qualified professionals, lack of students’ interest and non-institutionalizing of career teaching curricula were the main challenges limiting the effective access of soft skills.   Conclusively, career guidance was found to be the best method that aids students in developing soft skills and enhancing their confidence. The study recommends for policy interventions in institutionalizing career guidance in university curricular for effective employability skill trainings across the country.