AKU calls for stronger PPP in education
DAR ES SALAAM: AGA KHAN University (AKU)’s Associate Vice Provost, Dr Eunice Pallangyo has called for continued collaboration between the government and private-sector education stakeholders to ensure the delivery of highquality education that meets societal needs and keeps pace with scientific and technological advancements.
Dr Pallangyo made the appeal during the 20th convocation ceremony of AKU held on Monday in Dar es Salaam.
She commended the government for its strong support in facilitating private-sectorled education programmes and projects, which have played a vital role in improving the education sector.
She stressed the need for sustained partnerships between the government, universities, and private sector to ensure that education continues to evolve in step with global advancements.
“As key players in education, we deeply appreciate the government’s unwavering support since the inception of this university. We have worked together on numerous programmes and initiatives, and the level of cooperation has been remarkable. It’s clear that nothing great can be achieved without collaboration,” she said.
“What we ask for is the continuation of this collaboration because, together, we can achieve greater milestones, especially in delivering quality education that aligns with the needs of our society and the ever-evolving world of science and technology. This partnership should also extend to providing opportunities for aspiring students to further their education at our institution,” she added.
Dr Pallangyo said that the Aga Khan University remains committed to empowering students with critical thinking skills and self-reliance, enabling them to thrive in their careers and contribute to national development.
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Speaking about the convocation, Dr Pallangyo highlighted that a total of 71 graduates from different academic disciplines have been awarded their degrees, including in education, nursing, midwifery, medicine, and journalism.
“Today marks our 20th graduation ceremony, and we are proud to have 71 graduates in various fields. Among them are teachers pursuing master’s degrees to enhance their skills, as well as 34 graduates from the School of Nursing and Midwifery who have upgraded from diplomalevel qualifications to bachelor’s degrees. These graduates have gained valuable expertise, particularly in healthcare technology and patient care improvement,” she said.
She added, “We have medical graduates who have earned their master’s degrees in various specialties, as well as one graduate in media leadership and innovation.”
She further urged the graduates to embrace excellence, creativity, and innovation as they embark on their professional journeys.
“At Aga Khan University, we instill confidence and problem-solving skills in our students. Instead of complaining about challenges, we teach them to ask problem solving question. This mindset is what makes our graduates be solutiondriven leaders,” she said.
One of the graduates, Absalom Kibanda, who earned a Master’s Degree in Media Leadership and Innovation, expressed his excitement about applying his knowledge to help navigate the evolving media landscape.
“The media industry is undergoing massive technological and structural changes. When Aga Khan University introduced a master’s programme tailored for journalists, I knew this was my chance to upgrade my skills and prepare for the future. Now, I am ready to play my part in transforming the industry,” he said.
