By Charles Mkoka
DODOMA, Tanzania — The Dar es Salaam Maritime Institute (DMI) has opened applications for the 2026/27 academic year, urging young Tanzanians to take advantage of growing opportunities in the maritime sector as the country seeks to expand its blue economy.
Speaking during the Public Service Week exhibition in Dodoma, DMI Vice Chancellor for Planning, Finance and Administration, Prof. Mwisila Lucas, said the institution is positioning itself as a key contributor to Tanzania's maritime development through training, research and professional consultancy services.
"We encourage parents and students to explore the opportunities available in the maritime sector. Our programmes provide pathways for both employment and self-employment," he said.
Prof. Lucas said the government has continued to strengthen the institution by investing in modern training equipment, including engineering workshop facilities, maritime navigation training tools and cargo handling systems used in port operations.
He noted that the institute has also expanded its pool of specialists in marine engineering, ship navigation, logistics, maritime economics, maritime law and other ocean-related disciplines.
Beyond academic training, the institute provides consultancy services to public and private sector organisations involved in maritime activities, including ship operators, passenger vessel owners and ferry service providers. It also conducts research aimed at supporting the development of Tanzania's maritime and blue economy sectors.
According to Prof. Lucas, the institute's participation in the Public Service Week exhibition is intended to bring services closer to citizens while raising awareness about opportunities available in the maritime industry.
Prospective students can access admission requirements and programme details through the institute's website, adding that the first application window is scheduled to close on July 10.
Prof. Lucas also highlighted the availability of financial support for eligible students through the Higher Education Students' Loans Board, Zanzibar's student financing scheme, the Samia Scholarship programme and industry-specific maritime funding initiatives.
The institute said it is currently admitting students into certificate, diploma undergraduate and master's degree programmes, alongside professional maritime training courses for seafarers ranging from basic certification to ship officer qualifications.
Tanzania has increasingly identified the blue economy as a strategic area for economic growth, with government policies encouraging investment in shipping, ports, fisheries, marine services and ocean-related industries.
