UDSM honours trailblazing researchers for securing multi-billion shillings grants
- Female academics lead the way
The University of Dar es Salaam has honoured outstanding academic staff for securing substantial research and consultancy funds during the first and second quarters of the 2024/2025 financial year—underscoring the institution’s growing influence in driving impactful research and innovation.
Speaking recently about these achievements, UDSM Vice Chancellor Prof. William A. L. Anangisye praised the researchers’ accomplishments for flying higher the UDSM flag by their commendable research and consultancy works.
“This success is a testament to the depth of talent and commitment at UDSM. These scholars are not only elevating the university’s global standing but also solving real societal problems", said Prof. Anangisye.
Leading the list is the institutional proposal of a team of various UDSM principal investigators from various units, who collectively secured TZS 11.3 billion for a multidisciplinary Sida-funded project aimed at enhancing inclusive development in Tanzania.
The project, housed under the Directorate of Research and Publication (DRP), will support 43 PhDs, 6 Masters and 17 Postdoctoral fellows and generate over 124 academic publications, patents, prototypes and community knowledge transfers.
“This recognition is not just personal—it affirms the university’s commitment to national development through strategic research”, said Dr. Merezia Wilson, UDSM coordinator for Sida programme.
Power of collaboration to address educational challenges
Significantly in this list is Dr. Katherine Fulgence of the Dar es Salaam University College of Education (DUCE), who attracted TZS 2.3 billion from Canada’s IDRC for a cross-border project strengthening teacher development and mentorship in Tanzania, Kenya and South Sudan.
“This is a milestone that reflects the power of collaboration in addressing educational challenges”, remarked Dr. Fulgence.
Another key recipient, Dr. Catherine Masao of the Institute of Resource Assessment (IRA), attracted TZS 2.03 billion for the BIOCOVE project, focusing on biodiversity conservation through virtual and practical learning. “This award motivates us to do more for sustainability and the environment,” Dr. Masao noted.
Prof. Opportuna Kweka from the Geography Department was recognised for securing TZS 680 million for her comparative research on climate-induced displacement in Tanzania and Kenya, while in the consultancy category, Dr. Daudi Augustino led with a TZS 905 million project for government infrastructure in Dodoma.
Also substantial, Prof. Bernadeta Killian from the College of Social Sciences (CoSS) designed a TZS 772 million UN Women-funded leadership training initiative for women in local governance.
The Deputy Vice Chancellor - Research, Prof. Nelson Boniface, highlighted the broader impact of the researchers’ notable accomplishments. “This achievement demonstrates how academic excellence can translate into transformative national and regional solutions”.
The Director of Research and Publication, Dr. Mathew Senga, reaffirmed UDSM’s strategic goal to foster research that brings tangible benefits: “We aim to create an enabling environment where research is not only rigorous but also relevant and impactful”.
As Tanzania advances toward a knowledge-based economy, UDSM's recognition of its research leaders sets a clear benchmark in academia—where research excellence meets community-driven transformation.