Bank, govt explore funding boost for higher education

DAR ES SALAAM: Efforts to expand funding for higher education in Tanzania gained momentum after Exim Bank officials held talks with the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology on supporting students in critical fields.

The meeting, held in Dodoma on April 27, 2026, brought together a delegation from Exim Bank led by Chief Financial Officer Shani Kinswaga, alongside senior bank officials, and the Minister for Education, Science and Technology, Adolf Mkenda.

Discussions centred on strengthening cooperation in financing higher education, with particular focus on supporting students pursuing programmes in Data Science, Artificial Intelligence and other interdisciplinary sciences.

Both sides explored potential funding mechanisms, including sponsorships, tailored financial support and partnerships aimed at increasing access to higher education and equipping students with skills aligned to evolving labour market demands.

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The bank reaffirmed its commitment to investing in science, technology and innovation education, noting that such support is key to preparing Tanzania’s workforce for the demands of a digital economy.

On his part, Prof Mkenda welcomed the private sector’s growing role in education financing, saying collaboration with institutions like Exim Bank is essential in advancing ongoing education reforms and building a highly skilled workforce.

The meeting is expected to pave the way for new funding initiatives and programmes targeting higher education, particularly in emerging and high-demand fields.