The government has reaffirmed its commitment to positioning Tanzania as a hub of scientific excellence by investing in young talent through the Samia Scholarship Extended program.
This initiative, launched on July 8, 2025, seeks to develop a new generation of global experts in Data Science, Artificial Intelligence, and Interdisciplinary Sciences.
Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology, Prof. Carolyne Nombo, told reporters in Dar es Salaam on August 31, 2025, that the scholarship is part of wider efforts to ensure the country is not left behind in fast-evolving technological fields.
“This is more than just financial support; it is a national investment in knowledge and innovation,” said Prof. Nombo.
“We want to nurture Tanzanians who will become leaders in science and technology globally, and who will later return to contribute to the country’s development.”
Although 50 students were awarded this year’s international scholarships, Prof. Nombo stressed that the program is also designed to strengthen higher education locally.
Ninety-one of the applicants also applied to Tanzanian universities, ensuring that even those not selected for foreign institutions will still benefit through the Samia Scholarship offered for local studies.
Before heading abroad, the beneficiaries will undergo a ten-month intensive training at the Nelson Mandela African Institution of Science and Technology (NM-AIST).
The camp will provide skills in programming, systems analysis, leadership, and cultural orientation. Participants will also sit for internationally recognized examinations.
COSTECH Director General Dr. Amos Nungu said the program demonstrates Tanzania’s strategic approach to investing in science.
“If we want to compete globally, we must create experts who can generate solutions using modern tools like Artificial Intelligence and Data Science. This is the pathway for Tanzania’s industrial and digital transformation,” he said.
The government has also highlighted gender inclusion as a key priority. Of the 96 applicants, 13 were girls.
Authorities say they are working to encourage more female participation in science, including building girls’ schools, promoting science subjects, and improving learning environments.
Education analysts note that the scholarship reflects Tanzania’s broader goal of building a knowledge-based economy.
By training young Tanzanians abroad and equipping them with advanced skills, the country hopes to reduce dependence on foreign expertise and foster homegrown innovation across sectors.