DAR ES SALAAM: The Commissioner General of the Tanzania Revenue Authority (TRA), Yusuph Mwenda, has urged higher learning institutions, including the Institute of Finance Management (IFM), to play a major role in ensuring that Tanzanians are not left behind in adapting to advancing technology.
In a keynote speech delivered during the 2024 IFM Convocation in Dar es Salaam, by the Institute of Tax Administration’s Rector, Professor Isaya Jairo, on behalf of the Commissioner, the TRA chief noted that the financial sector has been significantly impacted by technological advancements, necessitating community empowerment to keep pace with these changes.
“Adaptation to technological advancements requires intentional preparedness to ensure no one is left behind, and higher learning institutions have a major role to play,” the Commissioner emphasized in his address at the event.
Mwenda highlighted that as TRA Commissioner, he has witnessed tremendous changes in taxation tools and regulations guiding revenue collection. He expressed hope that IFM, as a key stakeholder, is embracing these transformations by devising innovative ways to prepare its graduates.
“Today, we have businesspeople conducting trade online, and we have technologies enabling interoperability of various systems, all of which contribute to determining actual taxable income,” he said.
He commended IFM for preparing graduates, some of whom have been employed by the TRA, and urged the institute to continue producing a skilled workforce to enhance the financial sector.
“Embracing change allows us to see opportunities where others see obstacles. It’s the willingness to adapt, challenge the status quo, and continuously learn that will set you apart. As you look to the future, I urge you to consider your role in shaping it. The world needs innovative thinkers, compassionate leaders, and advocates for positive change,” the Commissioner told students, academicians, and stakeholders in attendance.
During the event, Prof. Jairo launched a book co-authored by Dr. Justina Utouh and Dr. Sara Msuya titled Pata Fursa ya Kujiajiri kwa Kufahamu Mbinu na Mchakato wa Kujiajiri.
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The event also recognized outstanding students who excelled in internal examinations and external competitions, with scholarships awarded to deserving candidates.
On his part, IFM Rector Prof. Josephat Lotto said that the institute supports the government’s efforts to address challenges that hinder the full utilization of technology by Tanzanians.
“We have reviewed our programs and introduced new ones to support this cause. Our programs, such as the Bachelor of Accountancy in Information Technology (BAIT) and the Master of Banking with Systems, are part of our efforts to ensure that Tanzanians are prepared to adapt to technological changes in the financial sector,” he noted.
The Rector added that IFM has introduced programs focusing on cybersecurity and data analytics at both bachelor’s and master’s levels to ensure that Tanzanians, who work tirelessly to advance their personal and national economy, can do so without fear that their efforts and investments will be in vain.
