University students have been urged to uphold integrity, patriotism and humility as they prepare to enter public service and leadership positions, with the government emphasizing that ethical leadership remains critical to Tanzania’s development.
The call was made by the Minister of State in the Prime Minister’s Office (Regional Administration and Local Government), Prof. Riziki Shemdoe, while opening the Youth Leadership Forum at Mzumbe University in Morogoro on June 20.
Prof. Shemdoe, who represented the Minister of State in the Prime Minister’s Office (Policy, Parliament, Coordination and Persons with Disabilities), Prof. Palamagamba Kabudi, told participants that integrity and patriotism are indispensable qualities for anyone entrusted with public office.
He cautioned that leaders who lack these values often struggle to earn public trust and sustain their responsibilities.
“Young people should strive to be individuals of integrity and patriotism. Without these values, it becomes difficult to remain effective and trusted in positions of leadership and public service,” he said.
The forum, organised by the Tanzania Leadership Foundation (TLF), brought together university students and youth leaders to discuss leadership, governance and national development.
Prof. Shemdoe also urged young people to remain humble when serving citizens, noting that leadership is about listening to people and addressing their concerns rather than seeking personal recognition.
He said there was no reason for public servants to treat citizens poorly, adding that respectful and responsive service delivery is a key measure of effective leadership.
The minister further encouraged young people to be proactive and resilient, advising them not to be discouraged by challenges but instead to seize opportunities that could help them advance personally and contribute to society.
He stressed the importance of safeguarding Tanzania’s peace, unity and stability, describing the country as a shared national asset that deserves protection from all citizens, particularly the youth.
Prof. Shemdoe assured the participants that the government under President Samia Suluhu Hassan continues to create opportunities for young people through investments in education infrastructure, skills development programmes and economic empowerment initiatives.
He highlighted the 10 percent loans provided by local government authorities to youth, women and people with disabilities, urging students to take advantage of the scheme as they pursue their studies and future careers.
Morogoro Regional Commissioner Adam Malima challenged the youth to develop independent thinking and analytical skills, saying future leaders must be capable of making sound decisions based on their own reasoning and judgment.
He encouraged them to use their creativity and critical thinking abilities to solve problems and contribute positively to national development.
Meanwhile, Tanzania Leadership Foundation founder and chairman Jabiri Makame said the organisation was established to nurture a new generation of patriotic, visionary and competent leaders.
Mr Makame, who also serves as Songwe Regional Commissioner, said the foundation aims to equip young people with leadership skills and values that can be applied in public institutions, private enterprises and community development initiatives.
He noted that building capable and ethical leaders is essential for ensuring sustainable development and strengthening governance in Tanzania.
