UNESCO backs Tanzania innovation drive
DAR ES SALAAM: THE United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) has pledged continued support for Tanzania’s efforts to strengthen scientific, technological and innovation development as the country seeks to build a knowledge-based economy.
Executive Secretary of the National UNESCO Commission (NATCOM), Professor Hamis Malebo, made a pledge during an interview with the Daily News at the NATCOM pavilion at the ongoing Ministry of Education, Science and Technology Innovation Exhibition in Tanga.
Professor Malebo said UNESCO was supporting the country’s development agenda through education reforms, curriculum improvement, teacher development and the promotion of science, technology and innovation, in line with the global Education 2030 Agenda and Sustainable Development Goal Four (SDG 4).
“UNESCO is contributing to the current development trends through improving curricula and ensuring the provision of better education for all by 2030,” he said.
He said the organisation was working closely with the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology to ensure that the country’s education system responds to changing social and economic needs by placing greater emphasis on practical skills, digital literacy, sustainable development and labour market demands.
Professor Malebo said UNESCO had also supported the launch of the National Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) Strategic Framework 2023–2030, which seeks to integrate issues such as climate change, environmental conservation and sustainable practices into learning content.
He added that UNESCO was strengthening professional development for teachers and institutional capacity to equip educators with modern and inclusive teaching approaches.
The organisation also supports sector coordination and policy implementation, including mechanisms aimed at improving equity in education, tracking children who remain out of school and expanding access to education for vulnerable groups, including girls and learners with disabilities.
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Speaking about NATCOM’s role, Professor Malebo described the commission as an important bridge between Tanzania and international platforms, enabling the country to benefit from UNESCO’s global networks while showcasing its achievements and priorities internationally.
He said NATCOM had made progress in advancing national priorities in education, science, culture and environmental conservation, while creating opportunities for young people to participate in global initiatives.
Among the commission’s recent achievements is progress towards the proposed Tanga-Pemba Seascape Biosphere Reserve, with NATCOM completing the final verification of the nomination dossier as the initiative moves towards consideration for official UNESCO Biosphere Reserve status.
The proposed designation is expected to strengthen conservation of marine and coastal ecosystems while promoting sustainable livelihoods and community participation in environmental management.
