The Tanzanian government, through the Tanzania Commission for Science and Technology (COSTECH), is prioritizing innovation as a driver of economic and technological growth.
A recent call to graduates of the Dar es Salaam Institute of Technology (DIT) to utilize the TZS 2.3 billion Innovation Fund is a clear demonstration of this commitment.
This fund aims to support innovators in transforming their ideas into market-ready solutions, aligning with the national agenda to promote economic empowerment and technological advancement.
Launched during the 9th Science, Technology, and Innovation Conference and Exhibition (STICE2024) by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Energy, Dr. Doto Biteko, the Innovation Fund provides critical resources for innovators and researchers.
Its goal is to ensure their projects meet international competitiveness standards.
Speaking during DIT's 18th graduation ceremony, COSTECH Director General Dr. Amos Nungu highlighted the potential of this initiative, stating, "These graduates have demonstrated remarkable creativity, and through the Innovation Fund, we believe they can drive transformative changes across various sectors, including technology, energy, industry, agriculture, and the environment."
The fund is part of a broader government strategy led by President Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan to enhance individual and national economic growth through technological development.
By focusing on graduates with market-ready innovations, it bridges the gap between academic achievement and practical application, ensuring that research contributes directly to the country’s development.
Graduates were encouraged to make full use of the fund to refine their innovations and contribute to Tanzania's technological and economic progress.
Dr. Nungu urged them to embrace this opportunity, emphasizing the importance of creativity and innovation in transforming key sectors. He also called on them to uphold ethical practices, pursue lifelong learning, and leverage their skills to strengthen the national economy.
The Innovation Fund is a strategic investment in Tanzania’s future, aiming to turn the creativity of young graduates into solutions that address societal and economic challenges. By channeling resources to promising projects, the fund ensures that innovation becomes a cornerstone of national development. Its success will depend on the active engagement of graduates in transforming their ideas into impactful outcomes.