National Award for Outstanding Student Loan Management Goes to University of Dar es Salaam

By Renancy Remmy, CMU

The Higher Education Students’ Loans Board (HESLB) has presented the University of Dar es Salaam (UDSM) with a prestigious national award for outstanding performance in student loan management during the 2024/2025 academic year.

The award, presented by HESLB Executive Director Dr. Bill Kiwia, recognises UDSM’s efficiency in delivering a full range of critical services, from timely submission of tuition invoices and examination results to maintaining accurate student records, resolving loan-related complaints, and ensuring seamless integration with the HESLB system.

For the university community, the honour represents more than an administrative milestone. It affirms UDSM’s commitment to transparency, accountability, administrative excellence, and sustainable student financing. 

Vice Chancellor, Prof. William A. L. Anangisye, described the recognition as a national endorsement of UDSM’s institutional culture of service and accountability. “This recognition underscores our dedication to serving students with transparency and excellence. It further cements UDSM’s role as a trusted partner in advancing access to higher education in Tanzania,” he said.

The award also highlights the role of UDSM’s pioneering Students’ Finance Unit, the first of its kind among Tanzanian universities. Led by Mr. Lugano Mwakyusa, the unit has been instrumental in streamlining student loan processes and strengthening the university’s collaboration with HESLB.

Receiving the award on behalf of UDSM, Mr. Mwakyusa expressed gratitude and commitment: “This recognition reminds me that my service to the university is ultimately service to the students. I promise to continue working diligently to ensure this trust is well maintained. I will not let my institution down.”

Student-centred impact

Student leaders emphasised the significance of the award from the learners’ perspective. DARUSO President, Mr. Emmanuel William, said the recognition reassures students that their future is secure. 

“This achievement proves that our university prioritises our future. Students can now focus on their studies without fear of financial disruptions, knowing the administration is working tirelessly on our behalf,” he said.

Similarly, the Director of Students Services, Ms. Paulina Mabuga, highlighted the broader impact of effective financial aid management. “Financial aid is central to student well-being and academic progress. By managing loans efficiently, we reduce student stress, foster inclusivity, and create an environment where learners can thrive academically”.

Ms. Mabuga further noted that the award demonstrates UDSM’s commitment not only to teaching and research but also to holistic student welfare.

UDSM congratulated Mr. Mwakyusa and his team for their dedication to excellence in serving students’ financial needs. The University reaffirmed its commitment to continually investing in efficient systems and professional personnel to ensure accountability, transparency, and student success.

As Tanzania’s flagship university, UDSM’s recognition strengthens its institutional reputation while setting a national benchmark for best practice in higher education finance management.