Experts and researchers from five universities in Tanzania and Canada have come together in a scientific meeting aimed at finding practical solutions to climate change, a challenge affecting not only Tanzania but the entire world.
Speaking at the opening of the meeting,Parmanent Secretary of the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology, Professor Calorine Nombo, said the collaboration is crucial for developing innovative approaches to climate-related challenges.
“The impact of climate change is global. It is vital for these universities, with skilled scientists and researchers, to engage in discussions and come up with solutions that benefit communities locally and globally,” Prof. Nombo said.
The universities involved include the University of Dar es Salaam, Aga Khan University, Nelson Mandela African Institute of Science and Technology, Simon Fraser University in Canada, and the host, Sokoine University of Agriculture (SUA).
Prof. Nombo highlighted that the initiative aligns with the government’s agenda to internationalize Tanzanian education, strengthening partnerships with leading global institutions to foster knowledge exchange and innovation.
SUA Vice Chancellor, Professor Raphael Chibunda, emphasized that research should go beyond academic papers and have a direct impact on communities.
He said the university focuses on forestry, wildlife conservation, sustainable agriculture, and promoting alternative energy solutions to reduce reliance on firewood and charcoal.
He also noted ongoing collaborations with the Forestry Research Institute of Tanzania (TAFORI) to identify tree species that can provide sustainable energy while conserving the environment.
Professor Maulilio Kipanyula, Vice Chancellor of the Nelson Mandela African Institute of Science and Technology, said the partnership will enhance innovation, including setting up small research labs and student exchanges to address climate change challenges.
Dr. Joy Johnson, President of Simon Fraser University in Canada, described the collaboration as a milestone in Tanzania-Canada academic relations, aimed at helping communities adapt to climate change through research and innovation.
The meeting marks the second of its kind, reinforcing the importance of science-driven solutions and international cooperation in tackling global environmental challenges.
