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Dr. Doto Biteko, the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Energy, emphasized the importance of continuing Mwalimu Julius Nyerere’s vision by investing in key sectors such as education, agriculture, industry, technology, and small-scale enterprises, all of which are crucial for fostering inclusive economic growth.
He stressed the need for collaboration between the government and the private sector to ensure that investments directly benefit ordinary citizens.
Speaking at a symposium on April 11, 2025, in Dar es Salaam, in celebration of Mwalimu Nyerere's 103rd birthday, Dr. Biteko highlighted the theme of the event: “The Vision of the Father of the Nation, Mwalimu Julius Kambarage Nyerere, in Education, Investment, and Building a Peaceful Nation for People-Centered Development.”
He stated, “Mwalimu Nyerere’s vision for investment focused on strengthening the national economy based on fairness and collective responsibility. He insisted that investment must benefit the people and ensure that national resources serve everyone. He opposed exploitative economic systems that breed inequality and injustice, instead championing socialism and self-reliance.”
Dr. Biteko further noted that Nyerere believed education should empower individuals to contribute meaningfully to their communities, not isolate them from their environments.
He posed the critical question: “In today’s world of fierce competition, are we investing in an education system that nurtures scientific knowledge, technological advancement, and life skills to drive real development?”
On the importance of peace, Dr. Biteko emphasized that “no meaningful development is possible without peace and national unity.”
Reflecting on Mwalimu Nyerere's leadership, he added, “Through the principles of nationalism and unity, Mwalimu Nyerere successfully built a nation that stands strong today, despite its social, tribal, and religious differences. The peace, unity, and brotherhood that he fostered continue to benefit our nation.”
The event also featured remarks from Stephen Wasira, the Chairperson of the Mwalimu Nyerere Memorial Academy Board, who celebrated Nyerere’s unifying role in Africa.
He said, “Mwalimu Nyerere united our countries because he believed that Africa must be one. He was a leader who guided our nation for 24 years, and today, as we commemorate 103 years since his birth, we honor his unwavering commitment to unity.”
Prof. Haruni Mapesa, the Principal of the Academy, spoke about Nyerere’s global impact and his dedication to national development.
He noted, “Mwalimu Nyerere was not only a national leader but a global figure who laid the foundations for our country’s progress. The Academy he founded continues to uphold his vision for peace and quality education.”
Prof. Mapesa highlighted the Academy's annual symposia as a way of preserving and promoting Nyerere’s philosophies, asking, “As we remember Mwalimu, we must reflect on whether we are following his educational philosophy to prepare our youth for national development or merely for job-seeking.”
He also shared the Academy’s achievements, including improvements in educational infrastructure under the leadership of President Samia Suluhu Hassan.
“Despite these strides, we continue to develop new projects, including a modern library to preserve vital national resources,” said Prof. Mapesa.
Furthermore, he noted that the Academy is fulfilling Nyerere’s vision of providing education that builds patriotism, leadership, and social responsibility, with the institution currently having 59 PhD holders, and plans to expand this number to 100 within two years.
The symposium also featured an essay competition for primary and secondary school students, focused on Nyerere’s contribution to self-reliant education and national development.
Dr. Biteko presented awards to the winners, while he himself was honored with a special recognition by the Academy. In his closing remarks, Dr. Biteko expressed, “Through events like this, we continue to honor Mwalimu’s legacy, ensuring his ideas continue to guide our path towards sustainable development.”
