World Bank urges universities to speed up HEET infrastructure projects as UDSM manifests commendable progress

By Tumaini Kibangala, UDSM-HEET

As the University of Dar es Salaam has manifested commendable progress in the overall implementation of the Higher Education for Economic Transformation (HEET) project, the World Bank has urged higher learning institutions implementing the initiative to accelerate infrastructure development and improve project management. 

This call, following concerns over slow construction progress in several institutions, was made during a joint meeting held recently at the University of Dar es Salaam (UDSM) that brought together officials from the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology, World Bank representateives, and leaders from institutions implementing the HEET project in Tanzania. 

The meeting followed the kick-off session chaired by Prof. Carolyne Nombo, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology. The meeting highlighted a national report on the implementation of the HEET project and its achievements across various components.

Speaking during the session, Mr. Nkahiga Kaboko, a representative of the World Bank, emphasized the need for universities to strictly supervise contractors to ensure timely completion of construction activities, rather than depending on project timeline extensions.

“It is essential that institutions intensify their oversight of contractors so that construction activities are completed on schedule, in line with the project’s goals”, Mr. Kaboko stressed.

Echoing these concerns, Dr. Peter Msofe, Director of Higher Education at the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to closely monitor the implementation of the HEET project. He urged all project stakeholders to provide strong supervision to ensure contractors fulfil their responsibilities as outlined in their contracts.

“Make every effort to enhance supervision and focus on contractors to ensure they complete work within the agreed timeframe. The pace of construction in many institutions remains unsatisfactory, and with the project deadline set for June 2026, time is running out”, Dr. Msofe cautioned.

UDSM’s commendable progress

Dr. Liberato Haule, Deputy Coordinator UDSM-HEET Project, presented the university’s progress under the HEET project which indicated promising and commendable progress. He reported the ongoing construction of new buildings at the university’s Lindi and Kagera campuses, as well as continued development at the Buyu campus in Zanzibar under the Institute of Marine Sciences.

“All projects are scheduled for completion by early 2026, and the UDSM management is committed to ensuring they are finalized within the planned timelines despite existing challenges,” said Dr. Haule.

He also highlighted key projects at the Mwalimu Julius Nyerere Mlimani Campus in Dar es Salaam, including the construction of a Gender and Special Needs Centre. 

“This facility is designed to offer important services such as counselling, access to academic resources, and tailored support programs for gender-based groups and students with disabilities”, he explained.

Dr. Haule emphasized that the centre would play a vital role in ensuring that all students have access to the necessary resources and support to thrive academically.

Another major project under construction is a modern postgraduate students hostel in Dar es Salaam, which is designed to meet the growing demand for high-quality accommodation on campus. 

“The new facility will feature a contemporary design and offer a comfortable living environment to support postgraduate academic efforts”, Dr. Haule said.

Under HEET project, UDSM is constructing 24 buildings for academic and administrative purposes, including those at its Institute of Marine Sciences (IMS) in Buyu, Zanzibar and the new campuses in Kagera and Lindi regions. 

The project, funded by the World Bank, is a benchmarking initiative aimed at transforming higher education in Tanzania by enhancing infrastructure, upgrading academic programs, and strengthening institutional capacity across universities and colleges nationwide.