TANZANIA: EDUCATION can be thought of as the transmission of the values and accumulated knowledge of a society.
In this sense, it is equivalent to what social scientists term socialisation or enculturation. Children are born without culture. Education is designed to guide them in learning a culture, moulding their behaviour in the ways of adulthood and directing them toward their eventual role in society.
In that light, the Deputy Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology, Professor Daniel Moshi urged the Russian Federation to increase the number of scholarships available for Tanzanian students who wish to study in Russia.
The Deputy Permanent Secretary made the call on a four-day Educational Forum at the Russia Culture Centre in Dar es Salaam which began on Wednesday and concluded today and saw over 500 students attending the event.
“The scholarships have experienced significant growth, increasing from 20 students in previous years to 90 for the academic year 2024/2025. This number is expected to remain steady at 90 for the 2025/2026 academic year; however, I compel expanding this to 150 scholarships for the 2026/2027 academic year.”
This proposed increase represents a 67 per cent rise from the previous year’s allocation and demonstrates a strong commitment to enhancing educational access.
This pivotal event aimed to strengthen educational ties between Tanzania and Russia.
At the event, twelve universities from Russia participated in the forum to provide professional guidance and discuss the academic programmes they offer. Key speakers included the deputy permanent secretary Prof Daniel Moshi and the ambassador of the Russian Federation to Tanzania, Andrei Avetysan.
The forum served as a platform to discuss academic opportunities, scholarship provisions, and the importance of diversifying fields of study for Tanzanian students.
Prof Moshi also urged students to consider academic disciplines beyond medicine and engineering, which have dominated Tanzanian students’ interests.
He underlined the need for a broader exploration of fields such as social sciences, agriculture, art and economics. He stressed by diversifying their academic pursuits, students can contribute more effectively to Tanzania’s development and expand their career prospects.
The forum also highlighted the potential for collaboration with retired Russian professors. Prof Moshi called for initiatives to enable these experienced educators to visit Tanzania and contribute to local universities. Such collaborations could significantly enhance the academic environment and ensure that graduates acquire the skills needed for economic growth.
Ambassador Avetysan echoed these sentiments, highlighting the role of educational exchanges in shaping well-rounded global citizens.
The forum featured representatives from 12 Russian universities, including notable institutions like Tula State University, Tomsk State University, and St Petersburg State University.
These representatives provided valuable insights into their academic programmes, helping students make informed decisions about their educational paths.
During the opening of the forum, Ambassador Avetisyan addressed Tanzanian students, encouraging them to take full advantage of the educational opportunities that Russia offers.
He highlighted the longstanding cooperation between the two nations, noting the intergovernmental Russian Tanzanian commission and the various agreements that have been signed in the fields of agriculture, energy, trade, tourism and education.
“Within the framework of the first intergovernmental Russian Tanzanian commission, many agreements were signed in the fields of agriculture, energy, trade, tourism and education, which, in turn, will open new jobs for young professionals in the near future.
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“We hope that having received a high-quality education in Russia, upon returning home you will become professionals and take your rightful place in society,” the Ambassador said.
In response to the request for expanding the number of students studying in Russia, the ambassador acknowledged receipt of the request and assured that they would work on it, although confirmation is still pending.
The ambassador also highlighted additional benefits of studying in Russia, pointing out that Tanzanian students have the opportunity to positively impact their families after completing their studies, while also building networks with academics from Russia and other countries that are pursuing their education there. “By gaining an education in Russia and returning home as skilled professionals, students will find numerous opportunities to support their families and enjoy fulfilling lives. They will also have the chance to form friendships and connections, as Russians are known for their welcoming nature.
“I encourage the representatives of Russian universities to attract as many Tanzanian students as possible and spread the word about these opportunities. We look foward to welcoming more young Tanzanians to study in Russia.”
Speaking to the students, Soyuz Alumni Association of Tanzania president, Dr Alfred Kamzora, reminded the students to adhere to rules and laws that will guide them through their studies including country and university laws.
“Russia is a wonderful country with friendly people, but like many nations, it has its rules. I encourage you to avoid any behaviour that could lead to trouble during your studies. Focus on your education— earn your degree, master’s, and PhD—and then return to contribute positively to your home country with the knowledge you’ve gained in Russia.”
“During my time studying in Russia, job opportunities were limited. However, you now have the chance to work while studying. This is a great opportunity to support you, but it’s essential to become proficient in the language first to secure a job.”
He also mentioned that the weather in Russia can be quite variable, with extremely cold periods as well as warmer days.
He advised anyone planning to go to Russia to pack clothing suitable for all seasons, particularly warm attire for the winter.
The Educational Forum will last 4 days. Within the framework of the Forum, a series of presentations from Russian universities will be held in secondary and higher educational institutions of Dar es Salaam, as well as in the Central Library of Zanzibar.
As the event concluded, both speakers encouraged students to take full advantage of the opportunities presented. Prof Moshi urged attendees to explore all available options and consider the long-term benefits of studying in Russia. He also invited Russian delegates to relish Tanzania’s cultural heritage during their visit, reinforcing the importance of mutual understanding between the two nations.
