MOROGORO: Mzumbe University has conferred an honorary doctorate in leadership upon President Samia Suluhu Hassan, recognizing her exemplary governance and contributions to sustainable development both nationally and globally.
This marks the first-ever honorary doctorate awarded by the institution since its establishment.
The Vice Chancellor of Mzumbe University Professor William Mwegoha commended President Samia’s transformative leadership, highlighting her commitment to good governance, justice, and national development.
Her leadership was lauded for initiating the establishment of an independent electoral commission, a move seen as a significant step toward strengthening democracy in the East African state.
“Her approval of the creation of an independent electoral commission was highlighted as a pivotal step in promoting fairness and transparency in Tanzania’s democratic processes,” the VC noted.
The Vice Chancellor also noted key reform under her leadership that has been realized across various sectors.
The education sector according to Prof Mwegoha, has experienced the increase of funds specifically in higher education loans, improved infrastructure, curriculum reforms, and the extension of free education to Form Six, thanks to President Samia’s initiative to improve the sector.
In healthcare, her government has prioritized the expansion of specialized health services at regional hospitals, the establishment of new health centers, and significant efforts to enhance maternal and child health.
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He added that President Samia’s leadership has also brought progress in infrastructure development, including the construction of the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR), the Kigongo-Busisi Bridge, and the expansion of the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system in Dar es Salaam.
“Investments in agriculture, energy, and clean water projects have further improved the livelihoods of rural communities. Her initiatives in tourism, particularly through innovative programs like sports tourism, have driven increased visitor numbers and boosted the economy.
“On the international stage, President Samia has excelled in strengthening diplomatic relations and advancing Tanzania’s economic diplomacy. Her commitment to fostering partnerships and enhancing Tanzania’s global presence was acknowledged as a defining aspect of her leadership,” he said.
In her acceptance speech, President Samia expressed heartfelt gratitude to Mzumbe University for the honour, acknowledging the university’s role in shaping her leadership skills.
She described the award as a testament to her dedication to serving the people of Tanzania and a motivation to continue working tirelessly for the nation.
Reflecting on the challenges she faced upon assuming office, President Samia recalled the unprecedented circumstances following the passing of her predecessor, the late President John Magufuli.
She noted that stepping into the presidency during the COVID-19 pandemic and amid the global economic disruptions caused by the Russia-Ukraine war tested her resilience and adaptability.
President Samia applauded Mzumbe University’s innovative use of local resources in implementing projects and pledged her government’s support for research, technology, and higher education.
She urged the university to establish a leadership development center to prepare future leaders capable of excelling regionally and internationally.
In her concluding remarks, President Samia encouraged graduates to use their education to serve their communities and promote unity.
“We want our graduates to excel at the regional level, in East Africa, SADC, and internationally, becoming exemplary professionals. To achieve this, we will continue to seek funding to invest in these areas, enhance our education system, and address the challenges of the modern world,” she noted.
She reminded them that education should act as a bridge between people and not a wall that divides them.
