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Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) National Executive Committee (NEC) member Ndele Mwaselela has urged academics to play a more active role in public discourse by using research and evidence to explain government policies and achievements, saying national debates should be guided by facts rather than emotion.
Speaking during the graduation ceremony of the CCM Senate for colleges and universities in Mbeya on June 28, Mwaselela said scholars should use their academic expertise to respond to criticism of President Samia Suluhu Hassan's administration with data and research while putting national interests first.
He argued that universities and higher learning institutions should become centres of informed public debate, where issues affecting the country are analysed objectively and supported by credible evidence.
"Academics should defend President Samia with facts and well-researched arguments. When questions are raised about government borrowing, the discussion should be based on evidence, including what the borrowing has financed and the development projects that have been delivered," he said.
Mwaselela maintained that assessments of the government's performance should take into account major investments undertaken during the Sixth Phase administration, including strategic infrastructure projects.
He cited the Julius Nyerere Hydropower Project, saying its implementation had advanced significantly under President Samia's leadership, alongside investments in airport infrastructure and the expansion and modernisation of facilities at universities and other higher learning institutions.
He called on university senates and researchers to analyse public policy issues and contribute evidence-based perspectives to national conversations.
"University senates should meet, examine issues thoroughly, conduct research and provide factual responses whenever questions arise. Scholars have an important responsibility to contribute to informed public debate," he said.
Mwaselela also said the government's increased investment in higher education places a responsibility on graduates and academics to use their knowledge in advancing national development and informing public understanding of government programmes.
He further stressed that peace and stability remain essential for economic growth and social development, urging Tanzanians to safeguard the country's unity.
At the same event, Mbeya Regional Universities Senate Chairperson Issa Mwazembe said the academic community supports the government's efforts to strengthen higher education, particularly through increased funding for student loans.
According to Mwazembe, the higher education students' loans budget has increased from TZS 464 billion in 2021 to TZS 917 billion in 2026, which he said reflects the government's commitment to expanding access to tertiary education.
He expressed confidence that funding would continue to grow as youth development remains a priority under President Samia's administration.
Meanwhile, the Senate's Regional Secretary, Irene Njiku, said the organisation has established 40 branches across colleges and universities in Mbeya Region as part of efforts to strengthen student and academic engagement.
