.jpg)
Retired Prime Minister of the United Republic of Tanzania, Mizengo Pinda, visited the Mizengo Pinda Campus in Katavi Region, one of the campuses of the Sokoine University of Agriculture (SUA), to evaluate ongoing development initiatives and their impact on education and the region’s economic growth.
During his visit, Hon. Pinda expressed gratitude to President Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan for her commitment to advancing education and economic transformation, particularly in underserved regions like Katavi.
He applauded the Higher Education for Economic Transformation Project (HEET), which aims to improve higher education infrastructure and programs, describing it as a catalyst for growth at the university and across the region.
“This project is not only improving education but also fueling development for the people of Katavi. I sincerely thank President Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan for her leadership in prioritizing projects that uplift communities through education and economic opportunities,” . Pinda said.
He commended SUA’s management for their efforts in ensuring the success of ongoing projects at the campus and expressed optimism about the potential outcomes.
He noted that the completion of construction activities would significantly boost student enrollment and facilitate the introduction of diverse degree programs tailored to address the region’s economic needs.
“The Mizengo Pinda Campus has a critical role in transforming Katavi into a hub of knowledge and innovation. By producing graduates equipped with practical skills, the university will directly contribute to solving economic challenges, improving livelihoods, and driving regional productivity,” Hon. Pinda stated.
The Mizengo Pinda Campus is a key beneficiary of the HEET Project, which aims to modernize Tanzania’s higher education institutions by improving learning environments, research capabilities, and community engagement. The campus is expected to strengthen SUA’s capacity to provide quality education while addressing national priorities such as agricultural innovation, food security, and rural development.
Hon. Pinda highlighted the importance of aligning higher education initiatives with broader national development goals. He emphasized that the investments in Katavi’s educational infrastructure will not only enhance SUA’s reputation as a center of excellence but also contribute to the socio-economic transformation of the region.
“These advancements will attract more students and researchers, fostering a culture of innovation and economic empowerment. This campus will become a beacon of progress for Katavi and a source of pride for Tanzania as a whole,” he concluded.
Hon. Pinda’s visit underscored the vital role of higher education in shaping the future of Tanzania, with projects like HEET serving as a testament to the government’s commitment to sustainable development. The Mizengo Pinda Campus is poised to become a cornerstone of academic and economic growth, ensuring long-term benefits for the community and the nation.