UDSM Deepens China–Tanzania Cultural Partnership with Expanded China Bookshelf Initiative
By Renancy Remmy, CMU
The University of Dar es Salaam (UDSM) has strengthened China–Tanzania cultural and academic cooperation with the launch of the Third China Bookshelf Initiative, reaffirming the role of knowledge and culture as drivers of national development and international partnership.
Speaking at the opening ceremony held at UDSM, the Director of Research and Publication, Dr. Mathew Senga, representing the Vice Chancellor, Professor William A. L. Anangisye, said the initiative reflects the University’s enduring commitment to global engagement through learning and cultural exchange.
“At UDSM, we believe that knowledge and culture are central pillars for sustainable development and meaningful international cooperation,” Dr. Senga said.
He described the China Bookshelf as “a powerful symbol of friendship and mutual learning between Tanzania and China,” noting that it provides students and scholars with direct access to Chinese history, culture and development experiences.
Dr. Senga commended the China Communications Construction Company (CCCC) Tanzania Branch and the Confucius Institute at UDSM for sustaining the programme. “While infrastructure connects places, initiatives such as the China Bookshelf connect minds and cultures. This is a critical complement to development cooperation”.
Representing the Deputy Vice Chancellor – Research, Dr. Mussa Hans, who also serves as Tanzania Director of the Confucius Institute, highlighted the academic and cultural value of the latest donation. “This third phase brings more than 300 publications covering Chinese history, traditional culture, modern development and technological achievements,” he said.
“The inclusion of cultural exhibits, such as Terracotta Army replicas, enriches learning beyond books. The China Bookshelf continues to serve as a bridge for academic collaboration, cultural understanding and enduring friendship between our two countries”, Dr. Hans emphasized.
A shared vision of promoting mutual learning through knowledge
The Chinese Director of the Confucius Institute, Professor Xiaozhen Zhang, said the expanded collection reflects a shared vision of promoting mutual learning through knowledge.
“By combining books with visual cultural exhibits, we are making Chinese civilization more accessible and engaging to students and the wider university community,” he said, adding that such initiatives deepen appreciation and understanding across cultures.
Speaking on behalf of the donor, the General Manager of CCCC Tanzania Branch, Mr. Li Xuecai, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to education and cultural cooperation in Tanzania. “CCCC views the China Bookshelf as part of our broader social responsibility. Our goal is to support education while nurturing long-term friendship and mutual understanding between the Chinese and Tanzanian people”.
On behalf of the University Library, the Acting Director of the UDSM Main Library, Dr. Collin Kimaryo, expressed gratitude to all partners for their support. “We are deeply thankful to the University leadership, CCCC Tanzania Branch and the Confucius Institute for this valuable contribution”.
He added: “The Library will ensure that these books and cultural exhibits are well preserved and widely accessible so that students, researchers and staff can fully benefit from this important academic and cultural resource.”