SUA awards best academicians, researchers, innovators

MOROGORO: THE government is set to strengthen agricultural education as a key pillar in addressing food security challenges, climate change, and youth employment.

The Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Agriculture, Gerald Mweli made the statement in Morogoro when presenting awards to students and staff of the Sokoine University of Agriculture (SUA) who excelled in academics, research, and innovation, noting that the awards symbolize a long journey of excellence, creativity, and dedication that distinguishes SUA as a hub of knowledge and transformation.

Mr Mweli noted that the government has continued to invest in various programs aimed at empowering youth in agriculture, including the Build a Better Tomorrow (BBT) youth and women’s program, SUA STEPS, and the Agriculture Input Promotion (AIP) program.

According to the PS, the initiatives have motivated youth to engage in self-employment, innovation, and active participation across the agricultural value chain.

He added that SUA holds a significant role not only in Tanzania but across Africa in producing graduates and researchers capable of enhancing food production and improving global food systems.

He further encouraged the university to review its curriculum to align with the 21st-century job market demands.

On his part, SUA’s Vice-Chancellor, Prof Raphael Chibunda, said that more than 180 students and academicians have excelled in their studies, research, and innovation, and will receive awards ranging from 50,000 to 1m/-.