Vice President Dr. Emmanuel Nchimbi has laid the foundation stone for a TZS 32.155 billion project to build modern science laboratories and a School of Agriculture at the State University of Zanzibar (SUZA), describing the investment as a catalyst for technology advancement, skills development and inclusive economic growth.
The project, financed through the World Bank-backed Higher Education for Economic Transformation (HEET) programme, is part of activities marking 62 years of the Union between Tanzania Mainland and Zanzibar.
Dr. Nchimbi said the facilities will expand opportunities for employment, strengthen science and technology capabilities, support the blue economy and raise productivity in agriculture—sectors he described as central to Tanzania’s long-term growth.
He stressed that education remains a top priority for both the Union Government and the Revolutionary Government of Zanzibar, noting that investments in higher learning institutions are key to building a skilled workforce and driving sustainable development.
The Vice President used the occasion to highlight the gains of the Union over the past six decades, including strengthened cooperation, sustained peace and steady socio-economic progress across both sides.
He urged the project consultant and contractor to ensure strict supervision and timely delivery, with full adherence to quality standards, professionalism and value for money.
Dr. Nchimbi also called on SUZA management to uphold transparency and accountability in managing the new infrastructure, emphasising the need to maximise its impact in research and innovation, particularly in agriculture, technology, tourism and environmental sustainability.
Acting Vice Chancellor Prof. Abdi Talib Abdalla said the laboratories will serve as a centre of excellence for science teaching, research and innovation, offering students and researchers a modern environment for experiments and collaborative studies.
He added that the project will enhance the quality of science education and produce graduates equipped with practical skills to compete in both domestic and international labour markets, while also strengthening the university’s capacity to provide consultancy, specialised training and research services aligned with national development priorities.
