The Deputy Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology, Prof Daniel Mushi, has underscored the government’s continued commitment to improving the quality of health training offered in higher learning institutions across the country.
During his recent visit to St. Francis University College of Health and Allied Sciences (SFUCHAS) in Ifakara, Kilombero District, Morogoro Region, Prof Mushi said the government is working closely with institutions that offer medical and allied sciences to ensure they deliver world-class education and produce competent professionals.
“Our focus is on creating an enabling learning environment and ensuring that institutions offering health programmes are equipped with modern infrastructure, quality curricula and adequate teaching resources,” said Prof Mushi.
He emphasised that the institutions play a critical role in strengthening the country’s healthcare system, and the government is keen on nurturing partnerships that enhance academic excellence and professional capacity in the health sector.
Prof Mushi made the remarks after meeting with the SFUCHAS leadership, led by Principal Prof Albino Kalolo. The two sides discussed opportunities for further collaboration to support the college’s mission of producing high-calibre health professionals.
Prof Kalolo said the college has sustained productive partnerships with the government and development stakeholders to ensure the delivery of quality education.
He noted that stronger engagement with the Ministry will boost the college’s contribution to national development.
The Deputy Permanent Secretary also officiated the opening of the 4th Annual Scientific Conference at SFUCHAS, describing it as a strategic platform that reflects the government’s integrated approach to promoting health, research and higher education.
“This is more than a routine academic event. It demonstrates our commitment to leveraging research and innovation to strengthen healthcare systems and human capital development,” said Prof Mushi.
He noted that Ifakara is becoming a national centre of excellence in health and research, with more than eight institutions focused on health and education.
These include the Ifakara Regional Referral Hospital, the Ifakara Health Institute (IHI), a cancer research facility and various health training colleges.
“The concentration of institutions in this area is also stimulating medical tourism and helping to produce a new generation of highly skilled health professionals,” he said.
Prof Mushi further highlighted the government’s investment in youth development through the Samia Scholarship and Samia Extended programmes, which target academically gifted youth across the country.
“These initiatives are aimed at building a resilient and competent workforce that will drive the country’s socio-economic transformation,” he added.
Kilombero District Commissioner Advocate Dunstan Kyobya said the scientific forum supports knowledge exchange, exposes young professionals to research opportunities and builds networks among health experts from within and outside the country.
He described the conference as an important step in shaping the future of healthcare delivery and scientific advancement in Tanzania.
The event was widely hailed as a milestone in driving positive change in medical research, healthcare training, and sustainable national development.