Zanzibar President and Chairman of the Revolutionary Council, Dr Hussein Ali Mwinyi, has said the Revolutionary Government of Zanzibar (SMZ) will continue supporting the Open University of Tanzania (OUT) in its efforts to expand access to education across the country.
Dr Mwinyi made the remarks on June 10, 2026, at State House in Zanzibar during talks with a delegation from the Open University of Tanzania led by its Chancellor and former Prime Minister of the United Republic of Tanzania, Mizengo Pinda.
The President said OUT has continued to play a key role in widening access to higher education through its open and distance learning system, which allows many citizens to study while continuing with their daily work and responsibilities.
He noted that this model has helped increase the number of people accessing university education in both Zanzibar and mainland Tanzania.
Dr Mwinyi said education remains a priority for the government, stressing that it is central to improving livelihoods and driving national development.
He said SMZ will continue working closely with OUT to expand learning opportunities and strengthen education services in the islands.
He also directed that the government will work on the request for land to build a major education coordination centre in Unguja, saying the facility will improve the university’s operations and bring services closer to students in Zanzibar.
In addition, Dr Mwinyi welcomed the university’s plan to establish a coordination centre in Pemba, noting that it will help reduce the challenges faced by students who currently travel long distances to access services.
He added that the government will also consider supporting the construction of the facility, including possible financial assistance.
The President said expanding education infrastructure is part of a broader strategy to strengthen human capital development and ensure more young people gain skills needed in a changing economy.
He further commended OUT for its continued expansion and its role in reaching learners in remote areas, saying the university’s model supports inclusive education and national development goals.
On his part, the Open University of Tanzania Chancellor, Open University of Tanzania leader Mizengo Pinda, said the institution is planning to establish permanent coordination centres in Zanzibar.
He said this will help reduce operational costs associated with renting offices and strengthen the university’s long-term presence in the islands.
He added that having permanent infrastructure will improve service delivery, enhance student support, and strengthen coordination of academic programmes.
He also said the university will continue working closely with both the Zanzibar and Union governments to expand access to higher education.
The meeting highlighted ongoing cooperation between SMZ and OUT in strengthening education systems and expanding opportunities for learners.
Both sides agreed that investing in education infrastructure is essential for building a skilled population and supporting long-term social and economic development.
