IPA: We’re grooming professional civil servants

ZANZIBAR: A NEW chapter in Zanzibar’s efforts to modernise public service training has begun with the laying of a foundation stone for the Zanzibar Institute of Public Administration (IPA) in Tunguu.

The ceremony was officiated by Minister for Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation, Ambassador Mahmoud Thabit Kombo (MP), as part of activities to mark the 62nd anniversary of the Zanzibar Revolution.

After laying the foundation stone, Ambassador Kombo urged lecturers and students at the institute to continuously build their capacity to ensure their professional skills keep pace with evolving global demands.

He said rapid technological changes require public servants to expand their knowledge or risk being left behind as the world advances.

The minister emphasised the importance of integrating Information and Communication Technology (ICT) into the curriculum, citing the growing influence of artificial intelligence, including its ability to generate realistic images and audio.

“Development is not only about the beauty of buildings; content is what truly matters in preparing students to adapt to change by understanding what the world needs and when it needs it,” he said.

On diplomacy and protocol training, Ambassador Kombo encouraged students to master international engagement skills, build confidence and demonstrate professionalism when addressing global issues.

He commended the Revolutionary Government of Zanzibar under President Hussein Mwinyi for its strong commitment to development across sectors, describing it as a reflection of clear national vision.

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The minister also commended President Samia Suluhu Hassan for earning global respect through prudent management of national resources for the benefit of Tanzanians.

Ambassador Kombo further pledged to secure higher education opportunities for IPA students and lecturers, announcing an initial allocation of five slots for those who have applied and received admission.

Earlier, IPA Principal Dr Shaaban Mwinchumu Suleiman said the institute has long relied on rented facilities, prompting the government, board and management to invest in a permanent campus to reduce costs.

He said the project, which is among the tangible gains of the Revolution, will provide a lasting solution for training leaders in both the public and private sectors.