Tanzania advised to include NIT’s aviation students in the Higher Education loan scheme
DAR ES SALAAM: THE Parliamentary Committee on Infrastructure has advised the government to include pilot students at the National Institute of Transport (NIT) in the higher education loan scheme to ease the burden of high tuition fees and enable them to complete their studies without financial constraints.
Speaking to journalists on February 16, 2026, on behalf of the Committee Chairperson during a visit to the institution, Johnston Mutasingwa said some programmes, particularly pilot training, are costly and require government support through student loans.
“We have witnessed that the costs of some courses are high; there is a need for the government to include these students in the loan system to relieve them of the heavy tuition burden,” he said.
He added that the loans would provide significant support to students pursuing expensive professional courses, stressing that the goal is to ensure that no student fails to continue with studies due to a lack of fees.
Apart from the loan issue, the Committee also advised the government, through NIT, to purchase two training aircraft for pilot students. The move aims to improve training facilities and enhance the quality of aviation education.
Mutasingwa emphasised the importance of the investment, noting that acquiring training aircraft would increase efficiency in preparing pilots and help meet the growing demand in the aviation sector.
On his part, the Rector of the National Institute of Transport, Prosper Mgaya, said there is a high demand for aviation professionals, revealing that the country is currently facing a shortage of aviation experts of up to 50 per cent.
“Investment in training is essential to address this shortage,” he said.
He added that the institute plans to procure two training aircraft to match the pace of studies and respond to the actual needs of the aviation industry.
Foreword
As we stand at the cusp of a new era in the agricultural sector, it is imperative that we have a clear roadmap to guide us towards sustainable and inclusive growth in this vital sector. The Agricultural Master Plan outlined in this document is the culmination of extensive research, consultation, and collaboration with stakeholders from across the industry.
The Agricultural Master Plan is a key pillar that will provide a clear path towards Tanzania becoming a higher middle-income country by 2050. This ambition will be fueled by expansion of land under irrigation, improved inputs use, mechanization of farm activities, improved access to extensionservic es, and reduction of post-harvest losses. Furthermore, it will improve access to local and international market, enhance research and development, promote adoption of innovation and technology and implementation of policy and regulatory reforms to facilitate trade and value addition, as well as increase youth and women employment in agriculture.
Through this Agricultural Master Plan, we aim to harness the potential of our agricultural sector to drive economic growth, create employment opportunities, and improve the livelihoods of millions of farmers. It is a blueprint for transforming the food systems to be more sustainable, resilient, equitable and have the capability to meet the needs of a growing population while protecting our natural resources.
This Agricultural Master Plan emerges as a beacon, guiding us toward a sustainable and prosperous future where tradition and innovation converge. This visionary blueprint, driven by a collective commitment to excellence and inclusivity, places the private sector, youth and women at the forefront of agricultural innovation and development, building upon the rich heritage of our nation’s existing agriculture plans.
Crops, livestock, and fisheries are beacons that represent our heritage, diversity, and ingenuity. As we navigate the complexities of the 21st century, from climate change and resource scarcity to evolving consumer demands and technological advancements, the leadership and expertise of the private sector serve as catalysts for change and progress.
The Agricultural Master Plan 2050 is a testament to the power of collaboration, partnership, and shared vision. At its heart are ambitious flagship initiatives that leverage the strengths of the various stakeholders and build on the foundations of our existing agriculture plans. From promoting sustainable agricultural practices and enhancing value chains to fostering innovation hubs and digital agriculture platforms, these flagships embody our commitment to unlocking the full potential of agriculture. This, in turn, will drive economic growth, enhance food security, and promote environmental stewardship.
As we embark on this transformative journey, we would like to express our gratitude to all experts, policymakers, farmers, development partners and stakeholders who have contributed their expertise and insights to the development of this ambitious Master Plan. We are confident that with their continued support and commitment, we will realize the full potential of the sector and build a prosperous future towards a more resilient, inclusive, and sustainable agricultural sector
Timely financial support from the government will undoubtedly help many young people feel more confident in fulfilling their dreams of conquering the skies.
As well as ITC, IT, Should be adhered since they have greater role in the development of acccademics hence loan scheme should be launched by them