By The Respondents Reporter
The Government of Tanzania has reaffirmed the critical role of higher learning institutions in driving economic growth and national development through the production of skilled human capital, strengthening research systems, and promoting innovation.
The statement was made by the Deputy Minister for Finance, Hon. Laurent Luswetula (MP), during the launch of the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) Programme at the Institute of Finance Management (IFM), held at KingJada Hotel Conference Hall in Dar es Salaam.
Hon. Luswetula said higher learning institutions remain central in shaping the country’s development agenda, particularly in advancing science, technology, and digital transformation, which are key pillars for economic competitiveness in the modern world.
He noted that the Government is increasing its focus on research and development as a foundation for building a strong and sustainable economy driven by knowledge and innovation.
He added that professionals trained in finance and other strategic fields will play a major role in supporting national development priorities.
“Vision 2050 is not just a discussion document; it is a national transformation agenda already being implemented. To achieve it, we need highly skilled professionals who can understand and address real development challenges,” said Hon. Luswetula.
He urged universities and other higher learning institutions to strengthen innovation and ensure that their training and research directly respond to both national and global challenges.
He emphasized the need for institutions to produce graduates who are problem-solvers and capable of supporting economic transformation.
The Deputy Minister also called on researchers to focus on practical studies that address real-life issues affecting citizens.
He highlighted key priority areas including financial inclusion, investment and economic growth, public sector efficiency, digital transformation, and climate change resilience.
For his part, the Chairman of the IFM Governing Council, Prof. Emmanuel Mjema, said the institution continues to fulfill its mandate of producing highly competent professionals in finance and related disciplines.
Prof. Mjema explained that financial education is essential across all sectors of the economy, not only in banking institutions as commonly believed.
He noted that every sector requires professionals with strong financial knowledge to ensure proper management of resources.
“Financial education is not limited to banks or the Central Bank. It is needed in all institutions. This is why many professionals in finance today have their academic foundation from IFM,” said Prof. Mjema.
The launch of the PhD Programme at IFM is seen as an important step in strengthening advanced education and research capacity in Tanzania, particularly in finance, economics, and development studies.
The event was attended by representatives from various institutions, including the Bank of Tanzania (BoT), IFM staff, and stakeholders from the education and finance sectors.
The Government reiterated its commitment to continue working closely with higher learning institutions to ensure they contribute effectively to national development through research, innovation, and the production of skilled professionals who can support Tanzania’s long-term development goals.
