Call for NIT to enhance innovation, promotional strategies to heighten its status

DAR ES SALAAM: THE National Institute of Transport (NIT) has been urged to enhance innovation and strengthen its promotional strategies in order to attract more students, including those from abroad, as part of efforts to improve education quality and its global competitiveness.

The call was made during a visit by the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Infrastructure to the institution in Dar es Salaam, as part of its oversight role in monitoring institutional development.

Speaking during the visit, Committee Chairperson Seleman Moshi Kakoso said NIT has made significant progress and elevated its status from a regular institution to one capable of competing at the international level.

He noted that the government has continued to invest in infrastructure and improve the learning environment, aiming to ensure the institution delivers quality education recognized both locally and internationally.

Kakoso also emphasized the importance of having well-structured short-term and long-term development plans to sustain growth and align with global education standards.

While commending the institution’s leadership, he pointed out the need to increase enrollment of international students, noting that this would boost internal revenue and enhance the institution’s global profile.

In addition, the committee advised the government to promote innovation in training systems at NIT to equip students with confidence and practical skills necessary for the job market.

However, Kakoso highlighted that the growing number of students also presents challenges, particularly in managing infrastructure and essential services such as classrooms, sanitation facilities, and other basic amenities.

“This is a large institution with many students, but as the number continues to rise, it becomes challenging to maintain existing infrastructure. This may lead to shortages in classrooms and essential services like toilets,” he said.

He concluded by urging NIT to intensify its marketing efforts both locally and internationally to attract more students and stakeholders in the transport and infrastructure sectors, ultimately strengthening its competitiveness on the global stage.