Over 40bn/- to expand access to higher education

ZANZIBAR: ZANZIBAR has allocated more than 40bn/- in student loans to expand access to higher education and support young people pursuing university studies.

Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Education and Vocational Training, Mr Khamis Abdallah Said, announced the funding after touring exhibition booths at Mnazi Mmoja, where higher learning institutions are showcasing academic programmes and career opportunities.

He said the government’s priority is to ensure more young people access higher education and acquire the skills needed to contribute to national development.

“Our commitment is to create opportunities for youths to pursue higher education and build a skilled workforce that can drive Zanzibar’s socioeconomic transformation,” he said.

Mr Said encouraged prospective students to visit the exhibitions to obtain guidance and verify accredited institutions before applying for admission.

The exhibitions have attracted hundreds of students seeking information on academic programmes, admission requirements and career opportunities.

Several students praised the initiative, saying it had helped them identify recognised universities and make informed decisions about what programmes to study.

Meanwhile, leaders in Chumbuni Constituency have pledged to work with the government to address challenges affecting the education sector.

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Speaking during the 24th graduation ceremony of Zanzibar Islamic College in Mazizini, Chumbuni Member of Parliament Ussi Salum Pondeza described education as the foundation of sustainable development.

He pledged to work with stakeholders to address the institution’s needs, including transport, learning materials and infrastructure development.

“We will collaborate with the government to ensure the construction of essential facilities, including laboratories, a health centre and student hostels, to create a conducive learning environment,” he said.

Delivering the graduates’ remarks, college president Simai Bakar Simai underscored the importance of ethics in the teaching profession and pledged that graduates would use their knowledge to serve society with integrity.

The initiatives reflect Zanzibar’s continued commitment to expanding educational opportunities and strengthening human capital for sustainable development.