The government of the United Republic of Tanzania has called for stronger collaboration between the University of Dar es Salaam (UDSM) and the University of Vienna, prioritizing science and technology, including solar energy, to develop skilled professionals for the benefit of both nations.
The call came during a visit on March 24, 2026, when an Austrian delegation led by Hannah Liko, Austria’s Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs in charge of political matters, met with UDSM leaders to discuss ways to strengthen academic and research collaboration between Tanzania and Austria.
Speaking at the meeting, UDSM Deputy Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs, Rose Upor, said that expanding cooperation in science and technology would open new opportunities for research, innovation, and skills development for students and faculty from both universities.
She emphasized the need to increase scholarships across different fields and promote staff exchanges, including virtual teaching, to deepen the partnership.
“The partnership between our universities is key to building expertise in areas like renewable energy, including solar power, and preparing professionals to address today’s development challenges,” Prof. Upor said.
Tanzania’s Ambassador and Permanent Representative in Vienna, Naimi S. H. Aziz, highlighted the importance of academic collaboration in enhancing skills, strengthening institutions, and improving service quality in Tanzania.
She added that joint research and exchange programs also strengthen diplomatic and economic ties.
Dr. Liko praised the ongoing collaboration between UDSM and the University of Vienna and suggested introducing German language courses at UDSM to further support student and staff mobility. She stressed that enhanced educational cooperation would benefit economic growth, research innovation, and diplomatic relations for both countries.
The partnership focuses on four strategic areas: student exchanges for international experience, academic and administrative staff exchanges, joint research tackling global issues such as governance and sustainable development, and collaborative academic publications to ensure African perspectives are represented internationally.
Education experts note that such partnerships are vital for building strong research institutions, fostering innovation, and preparing graduates with skills relevant to the global job market.
