Vice President of the United Republic of Tanzania, Ambassador Dr. Emmanuel Nchimbi, has urged the University of Dar es Salaam (UDSM) to develop its new Kagera Regional Campus into a hub of innovation, creativity and practical skills that will empower young people to respond to regional and global economic opportunities.
Dr. Nchimbi made the call while laying the foundation stone for the construction of the campus at Itawa Village in Bukoba District, saying the institution should prioritise programmes that directly address community development needs through skills-based and hands-on training.
He noted that Kagera Region and the wider Lake Zone are endowed with significant economic potential that can be unlocked through relevant higher education.
He said the campus should design curricula that equip students with practical competencies, enabling them to create jobs, innovate and compete effectively within the East African Community common market.
According to the Vice President, higher learning institutions must go beyond academic theory and play a direct role in transforming local economies.
Dr. Nchimbi added that Kagera’s geographical position, bordering several neighbouring countries, presents a unique opportunity for the campus to attract students from across the region.
He stressed that the campus should promote East African integration and Pan-Africanism, ideals that have historically defined the University of Dar es Salaam.
He further said the campus is expected to contribute significantly to the development of entrepreneurship, marketing skills and cross-border trade, while strengthening the capacity of young people to withstand competition in both regional and international markets.
The Vice President reaffirmed the Sixth Phase Government’s commitment to transforming education at all levels, with particular emphasis on higher education, to ensure graduates acquire market-relevant skills, competencies and knowledge.
He said this approach aligns with the Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) Election Manifesto for 2025–2030, which prioritises economic growth and improved social welfare.
Dr. Nchimbi noted that expanding access to education remains central to the government’s development agenda, citing continued provision of fee-free education from primary to secondary levels, alongside increased investment in higher learning institutions.
He added that, in implementing the manifesto, the Sixth Phase Government under President Samia Suluhu Hassan has resolved to ensure that every region in the country has either a university or a university constituent college.
Speaking at the ceremony, UDSM Chancellor and former President of the United Republic of Tanzania, Dr. Jakaya Mrisho Kikwete, underscored the importance of allocating adequate land for the project to support its long-term growth.
He said the vision is for the Kagera Campus to eventually evolve into a fully autonomous university.
Dr. Kikwete said the campus will be developed with modern infrastructure that meets international standards, with a strong focus on inclusivity and accessibility to accommodate all users, including persons with special needs.