Women shine as JK confers degrees at UDSM’s 55th Graduation
DAR ES SALAAM: THE Chancellor of the University of Dar es Salaam (UDSM) and Former President of the United Republic of Tanzania, Dr Jakaya Mrisho Kikwete, has conferred Bachelor’s Degrees, Diplomas and Certificates to graduates during the university’s 55th Graduation Ceremony (Second Session).
A total of 2,742 graduates attended the ceremony held at the Mlimani City Hall in Dar es Salaam. Of these, 1,510 were women, representing 55 per cent, while 1,232 were men.
In a separate event within the ceremony, the University of Dar es Salaam awarded an Honorary Doctorate in Literature to the Founder and Chairperson of the Mama Clementina Foundation, Dr Maria Josephine Kamm, in recognition of her long-standing contribution to the advancement of education in the country.
The award was presented on November 18, 2025, during the graduation ceremony witnessed by thousands of graduates, parents and guests.
Speaking after receiving the honour, Dr Kamm emphasised the importance of empowering girls through quality education, noting that such efforts transform not only individuals but also communities and the nation at large.
“Educating a girl is building a family, a community and a nation. Education is the engine of social transformation,” she said.
She added that education should be practical and should prepare young people to live with dignity, solve life challenges and contribute to community development. She also commended institutions promoting creativity, confidence and innovation among learners.
Through the Mama Clementina Foundation, Dr Kamm has supported the construction of school infrastructure, promoted access to education for girls and strengthened women’s participation in the education sector.
She urged graduates to remain resilient in the face of challenges and to use their education as a foundation for progress.“Your education is your strength. Use it with integrity and great ambition—and never forget your roots,” she stressed.
Meanwhile, UDSM Vice Chancellor, Prof William Anangisye, said the university has reviewed more than 250 curricula, with 242 undergraduate and postgraduate programmes submitted to the Tanzania Commission for Universities (TCU) for accreditation.
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“So far, 49 curricula have been approved for the 2025/2026 academic year,” he noted.
He added that the university has recognised over 120 innovations and registered 39 start-up companies founded by students and academic staff, as part of its efforts to promote entrepreneurship.
Regarding innovation and entrepreneurship training, Prof Anangisye said 569 students have benefited from the programmes, including 65 students with disabilities, reflecting the university’s commitment to inclusive and sustainable development.
