Prof. Anangisye Challenges Freshers to Turn University Admission into Future Success
By Erca Kisoli, CMU
For thousands of first-year students, joining university marks the beginning of a long-awaited dream. But beyond securing admission and stepping into lecture halls, the real challenge lies in making the most of the opportunity, developing the right values and preparing for life beyond graduation.
This was the central message of the University of Dar es Salaam (UDSM) Vice Chancellor, Prof. William A. L. Anangisye, as he hosted newly admitted students during the University's annual Vice Chancellor's Day (VC Day).
The Vice Chancellor challenged them to take charge of their academic journeys, uphold integrity and discipline, and seize the opportunities available to shape their futures.
Held following the completion of Orientation Week, the annual engagement provides the Vice Chancellor with an opportunity to interact directly with first-year students, welcome them into the UDSM community and guide them on the expectations and responsibilities that come with university life.
Addressing the students, Prof. Anangisye reminded them that admission to university was an important achievement, but succeeding required commitment, discipline and a clear sense of purpose.
He urged students to make academic excellence their foremost priority, manage their time effectively and avoid behaviours that could jeopardise their studies, including examination malpractice, indiscipline and substance abuse.
"Your primary responsibility at the University is to study and successfully complete your academic programmes. Make the most of the opportunity you have been given, remain disciplined and ensure that your actions reflect the values and expectations of the University," Prof. Anangisye said.
He further encouraged students to respect University regulations, embrace diversity, cooperate with one another and use University facilities and resources responsibly. He also cautioned them on their conduct in digital spaces, reminding them that responsible communication is part of being a member of the UDSM community.
Joining the Vice Chancellor at the engagement were the Deputy Vice Chancellors, who reinforced his message by addressing other important dimensions of the students' academic and personal development.
Use technology to learn, not to replace thinking
The Deputy Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs, Prof. Rose Acen Upor, challenged students to embrace technological advancements, particularly Artificial Intelligence (AI), while protecting their ability to think independently.
She explained that AI could support learning, research and access to information, but warned against allowing technology to replace the intellectual effort required to develop knowledge, analytical skills and original ideas.
"Artificial Intelligence should support your learning, not think on your behalf. You must continue to read, question, analyse and develop your own ideas. Do not allow technology to take away your ability to think independently," Prof. Upor said.
She also urged students to familiarise themselves with academic regulations, observe examination procedures, complete registration requirements and consult academic advisors whenever they encounter difficulties.
Beyond the classroom, she encouraged responsible use of social media, caution when sharing personal information and protection of the University's digital systems and information resources.
The Deputy Vice Chancellor for Planning, Finance and Administration, Prof. Bernadeta Killian, reminded students that while university life offers opportunities for friendships, social interaction, personal growth and recreation, these experiences should not come at the expense of their educational goals.
She encouraged students to participate in extracurricular activities and build meaningful relationships while maintaining a clear sense of why they had joined the institution.
"Enjoy your university experience, participate in extracurricular activities and build meaningful relationships, but never lose sight of the reason you came here. Your academic goals must remain your priority," Prof. Killian said.
Start thinking beyond the classroom
Meanwhile, the Deputy Vice Chancellor for Research, Prof. Nelson Boniface, urged students to cultivate curiosity and develop an interest in research and innovation from the beginning of their academic journeys.
He noted that UDSM offers opportunities for students to engage with experts, explore ideas across disciplines and acquire practical knowledge that can help address challenges facing communities and the country.
"Research is not only for postgraduate students or academic staff. You should begin developing a research mindset early in your academic journey, remain curious and take advantage of the knowledge, expertise and research opportunities available at the University," Prof. Boniface said.
His message encouraged freshers to see themselves not simply as recipients of knowledge, but as potential researchers, innovators and problem-solvers whose ideas can contribute to national and global development.
Through the Vice Chancellor's Day, Prof. Anangisye reaffirmed the importance of welcoming and guiding new students as they transition into university life, while helping them understand that higher education demands more than academic performance alone.
For the freshers, the message from the Vice Chancellor and the University's leadership was clear: gaining admission to UDSM opens doors to valuable opportunities, but what they ultimately achieve will depend on how they use their time, knowledge and experiences.
As they settle into their new academic environment, the challenge is to make every lecture, research opportunity, interaction and university experience count — building not only successful academic records but also the knowledge, character and competencies needed to make a meaningful difference in society.