The government has directed the contractor building a girls’ hostel at the Uyole Institute of Community Development in Mbeya City to complete the project on schedule, underscoring the Sixth Phase administration’s focus on strengthening education infrastructure for female students.
Deputy Minister for Community Development, Gender, Women and Special Groups, Ms Maryprisca Mahundi, issued the directive during an inspection visit to the project, which has reached more than 90 percent completion.
She said delays would undermine government efforts to improve access to safe and supportive learning environments for girls, particularly those from distant areas.
Ms Mahundi stressed the need for accountability, close supervision and prudent use of public funds, noting that the government expects quality outcomes from major investments in the education sector.
“The government has invested more than Sh5 billion in this hostel. It is therefore essential that the contractor, the project supervisor and the college management ensure the project is completed on time, to the required standards and with clear value for money,” she said.
She added that improving boarding facilities for girls is a strategic intervention aimed at boosting enrolment, retention and academic performance, while also addressing safety concerns that have long affected female students.
Mbeya regional chairperson of Umoja wa Wanawake Tanzania (UWT), Ms Edina Mwaigomole, said the hostel would help address persistent accommodation challenges faced by female students, including exposure to insecurity due to lack of safe housing.
“This facility is a timely response to challenges that have affected girls for years. It will provide a safe and stable environment, allowing them to focus on their studies and personal development,” she said, while commending the government for prioritising girls’ education.
Uyole Institute of Community Development principal, Mr Silvester Mwambene, said completion of the hostel would significantly increase the institution’s capacity to admit female students and reduce social challenges linked to inadequate accommodation.
He said the facility will accommodate more than 600 students, easing housing pressure and providing a secure environment that supports learning and student welfare.
Project supervisor Mr Latoi Mollel said final works were underway and assured officials that the project is on course for completion by December this year, as planned.
The Uyole girls’ hostel is part of broader government efforts to expand and modernise education infrastructure, with a focus on creating inclusive and safe learning spaces that enable girls and young women to fully participate in education.