Dr. Tulia calls for stronger academia-policy linkage in African varsities as UDSM hosts landmark academic freedom conference
By Jackson Isdory and Tumaini Kibangala, CMU
The Speaker of the National Assembly of Tanzania and the President of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU), Hon. Dr. Tulia Ackson (MP), has called on African universities and scholars to embrace their critical role in building a knowledge-driven, informed, and empowered society.
Dr. Ackson made the passionate appeal during the official opening of the “African Scholars and Intellectuals International Conference”, held from April 29 to May 2, 2025, in the iconic Nkrumah Hall, University of Dar es Salaam (UDSM).
The high-profile gathering, which was organised by the Council for the Development of Social Science Research in Africa (CODESRIA) attracted leading scholars, policymakers, and civil society luminaries from across the continent.
“We cannot achieve true political and economic freedom in Africa without academic freedom. Scholars must be empowered to think critically, challenge norms, and craft solutions that drive real transformation in our societies”, declared Dr. Ackson.
Dr. Ackson underscored the urgent need to bridge the gap between academic research and policymaking, insisting that the work of scholars must extend beyond classrooms and academic journals to influence real-world decisions.
“Research must not gather dust on library shelves. It should spark policy reforms and inspire societal change,” she said—an idea that resonated throughout the four-day conference.
Dr. Ackson also challenged African intellectuals to stand boldly at the forefront of social change, encouraging them to remain principled and courageous in confronting injustice. “We must empower scholars to serve with integrity, even when the truth is inconvenient.”
UDSM's enduring commitment to academic freedom
In his welcoming remarks, Prof. William A.L. Anangisye, the Vice Chancellor of UDSM, reaffirmed the university's historic role in defending intellectual autonomy. He referenced the landmark “Dar es Salaam Declaration on Intellectual Freedom and Social Responsibility”, which laid the foundation for the 1990 “Kampala Declaration”.
“These declarations have shaped the academic freedom discourse across Africa. UDSM is proud to have played a pioneering role,” said Prof. Anangisye. “Academic freedom is not a luxury—it is the lifeblood of relevant research and meaningful development.”
He also expressed deep appreciation to CODESRIA (Council for the Development of Social Science Research in Africa) for its collaboration, emphasizing the need for African universities to remain fully engaged in tackling the continent’s development challenges.
“This conference offers us a moment to reflect, to celebrate achievements, and to confront the obstacles still facing scholars across Africa. Our collective mission is to protect the right of scholars to speak truth to power,” he stressed.
Meanwhile, Prof. Christine Noe, the Principal of the College of Social Sciences (CoSS) at UDSM, underscored the importance of protecting and nurturing academic freedom within African institutions of higher learning.
“Academic freedom is not just an academic principle; it is a cornerstone of any thriving democracy and a catalyst for sustainable development,” Prof. Noe remarked.
She added: “Our commitment at the University of Dar es Salaam is to ensure that our scholars and students operate in an environment that upholds intellectual autonomy and encourages critical inquiry to solve real-world challenges facing our continent.”
Insights from CODESRIA leaders
CODESRIA’s President, Prof. Lyn Ossome, and Executive Secretary, Dr. Godwin Murunga, offered powerful reflections on the current state of academic freedom in Africa. Prof. Ossome praised recent legal and institutional reforms but warned of ongoing threats, including censorship, political interference, and government control over research funding.
“At CODESRIA, we are committed to building an Africa where academic freedom is sacrosanct. While progress has been made, our fight is far from over. Intellectual independence is essential for Africa’s future”, said Prof. Ossome.
Dr. Murunga reinforced the organization’s dedication to empowering scholars to engage openly and fearlessly with society’s most pressing issues. He also called for stronger academic solidarity across African universities, highlighting the importance of responsive networks to defend scholars under threat.
A conference that inspired hope and action
The conference sparked deep reflection among its attendees. Dr. Nyambura Mwaura, a Kenyan academic, described it as a transformative experience.
“This conference has shown me how deeply academic freedom is tied to sustainable development. Many of our institutions are held back by political interference. The time for change is now”, she said.
Lively panel discussions tackled urgent topics such as censorship, institutional autonomy, the role of universities in nurturing democracy, and the relationship between intellectual freedom and innovation. The event was marked by an atmosphere of unity, resolve, and shared purpose.
As the conference concluded, participants issued a resounding call to action: “Defend academic freedom, foster cross-border collaboration, and ensure that Africa’s scholars can teach, research, and contribute freely—without fear of censorship or retaliation”.
The University of Dar es Salaam, in partnership with CODESRIA, has reaffirmed its place at the heart of this vital continental conversation—championing the cause of truth, knowledge, and intellectual courage for a better Africa.