The Prime Minister’s Office–Regional Administration and Local Government (PMO-RALG) is seeking to deepen its partnership with the University of Dar es Salaam (UDSM) in a move aimed at improving the quality, efficiency and sustainability of public infrastructure projects.
PMO-RALG Deputy Permanent Secretary responsible for Infrastructure, Engineer Rogatus Mativila, held talks with representatives of UDSM’s College of Engineering and Technology (CoET) to explore areas where the two institutions can work together in the implementation of construction projects overseen by the office.
The discussions centred on the use of engineering expertise, technology and institutional experience to ensure projects meet required standards, are completed on schedule and deliver value for money to the public.
Eng Mativila said closer cooperation between government institutions and universities was important in addressing technical challenges and developing practical solutions for infrastructure projects.
He emphasised the need for government to tap into expertise available in higher learning institutions as part of efforts to strengthen project planning, supervision and implementation.
“Collaboration with universities is important because it enables government to access specialised expertise and innovative solutions that can improve the quality and efficiency of infrastructure projects,” Eng Mativila said.
CoET Dean Dr Innocent Macho said UDSM had the capacity and experience to provide technical support through its consultancy arm, the Bureau for Industrial Cooperation (BICO), which has been involved in various projects across the country.
Dr Macho said the university was ready to use its technical expertise to support efforts aimed at strengthening infrastructure development and ensuring projects are implemented to the required professional standards.
The two sides agreed to continue discussions to establish a stronger framework for cooperation, with a focus on improving project delivery under PMO-RALG.
The proposed partnership is expected to strengthen the connection between academic research, engineering expertise and government infrastructure development, while promoting the adoption of appropriate technologies and professional standards in public projects.
