Mkumbo calls for more innovation, engineering training in private colleges

DAR ES SALAAM: THE government has stated that it will collaborate with private colleges to prioritize science studies, aiming to produce a large number of local engineers.

This was announced today, 15 August in Dar es Salaam by the Minister of State in the President’s Office (Planning and Investment), Prof Kitila Mkumbo, when speaking at the Research and Innovation Week event by St. Joseph University in Dar es Salaam.

He noted that the university has long been at the forefront of producing science professionals and urged it to maintain its leadership role among institutions training experts in scientific fields within the country.

Minister Mkumbo said he had visited the students’ academic exhibition and observed that they had successfully developed various innovations capable of benefiting the nation.

“I have witnessed remarkable innovation from your students, but it is disappointing that these innovations often remain mere ideas without reaching the end; therefore, I challenge you to ensure that your students’ innovations are linked to industries and transformed into tangible realities,” he said.

“It would be meaningless if you innovate but your creations never bear fruits; there must be a system to ensure these innovations are put into production. When students graduate, they either become self-employed or seek employment, and to get hired, you must demonstrate something you have actually accomplished that yielded results,” he said.

He stated that students from various science colleges, such as St. Joseph, should continue to be innovative by developing affordable solutions to address various challenges facing the community.

He expressed his delight at the students’ innovation regarding clean household cooking energy, noting that clean cooking energy has become the government’s top priority.

“President Samia has been making significant efforts to ensure citizens use clean cooking energy; therefore, seeing that you too have innovated in the use of clean energy brings me great joy, and I commend you highly,” said Minister Mkumbo.

Furthermore, he commended the college’s Vice-Chancellor and management for establishing five center of excellence all of which teach science-related subjects in various parts of the country.

“By focusing on robotics and artificial intelligence, you are aligning yourselves with the global trajectory. As you know, the government is preparing to implement Vision 2050, and the use of technology is a key consideration; thus, you are actively implementing the government’s vision,” said Prof Mkumbo.

He commended the college’s founder for the bold decision to establish the institution in the country at a time when the private sector did not enjoy the widespread acceptance it does today.

“Among the colleges offering science courses, St. Joseph leads the way, having pioneered engineering courses before others; therefore, I urge you to ensure you maintain your position as a leader in science education,” he said.