Dar Es Salaam — TANZANIA has got its first international beauty academy with the launch of the Dar es Salaam based Pure Academy of Aesthetics Limited.

In her keynote speech at the opening ceremony in Dar es Salaam today, Yasmin Shariff, the founder and proprietor of the academy, said they will provide high level training courses in the beauty industry.

"Pure Academy of Aesthetics Limited will play a vital role in providing solid education and professional qualifications in the beauty field," she said.

The Pure owner said the academy's goal is to raise the industry standard for hair and beauty therapy in Tanzania and the region.

"My vision was not just to open a hair and spa but a diverse canvas of education which can facilitate better prospects and increase employment for our students in the country and in other parts of the world," she said.

She observed that in recent years Tanzania has taken a big leap in the field of fashion, but there has been no major evolution in the field of aesthetics.

"There were limitations for students interested in this field with no easy access to this beautiful education within the country, however, things have changed now and Pure has arrived to make this possible and contribute in a big way to dynamic careers," she added.

The academy's advisor and consultant Hanif Viran said "Pure meets a long felt need in the country and the region and will be a centre of excellence providing quality education in the beauty industry and its associated fields."

"People interested in make-up, hairdressing, beauty and spa therapy can further their interests and attain internationally accredited qualifications at Pure Academy," the Canadian beauty expert added.

He said the progressive curriculum that will be taught at the academy will shape the flexibility to work in a diversity of avenues ranging from salon, editorial, runway, television, production studios and film sets.

Viran said the academy will be in operation from August 2, this year. Students will learn the necessary skills as salon managers, entrepreneurs, accounting practices, retail merchandising, strategies, inventory control and the ability to market one and one's business.