Deputy Vice Chancellor, Prof. Killian Champions Healthy Living as UDSM Expands Weekly Fitness Programme
By Donald Boneka, CMU
The University of Dar es Salaam (UDSM) is strengthening its commitment to promoting healthy lifestyles among staff and the wider University community through a weekly fitness programme, with Deputy Vice Chancellor – Planning, Finance and Administration, Prof. Bernadeta Killian, calling on members of the institution to embrace regular physical exercise as part of a balanced and productive life.
The call was made during a fitness session held at the University's outdoor sports grounds, where Prof. Killian joined staff and other participants in a series of exercises aimed at promoting physical fitness, mental well-being, and social interaction.
The programme, which is now held every Thursday from 4:00 p.m. at the UDSM Sports Grounds, is open to members of the University community and forms part of ongoing efforts to foster a healthier and more vibrant campus.
Speaking during the session, Prof. Killian said maintaining good health is essential for academic excellence, professional productivity, and personal well-being, noting that regular exercise helps prevent lifestyle-related diseases while improving mental resilience and overall quality of life.
"A healthy University begins with healthy people. Regular physical exercise is not only good for our bodies but also strengthens our mental well-being, reduces stress, and enables us to perform our responsibilities more effectively. I encourage all members of the University community to make these Thursday fitness sessions part of their weekly routine”, she said.
She added that the University's investment in staff wellness complements its broader mission of advancing excellence in teaching, research, innovation, and community service.
"As a University, we are committed to creating an environment where academic excellence goes hand in hand with healthy living. When our staff and students are healthy, they are better positioned to innovate, serve society, and contribute meaningfully to national development”, Prof. Killian said.
As part of the event, Prof. Killian presented exercise kits to participants in recognition of their commitment to maintaining active and healthy lifestyles. The gesture, she said, was intended to motivate continued participation while strengthening a culture of wellness across the University.
An encouragement to remain physically active
Participants welcomed the initiative, describing it as an encouragement to remain physically active and commending the University's leadership for leading by example.
"Seeing our senior leaders actively participate in these sessions motivates us to stay committed. It demonstrates that the University genuinely values the health and well-being of its staff and creates a sense of unity beyond our daily work responsibilities”, one participant said.
The weekly fitness programme forms part of UDSM's broader wellness agenda, which seeks to promote preventive healthcare, strengthen staff welfare, and cultivate a supportive and productive working environment.
By encouraging regular participation in physical activity, the University continues to reinforce the importance of healthy living as an integral component of institutional excellence.
Members of the University community are encouraged to participate in the fitness sessions held every Thursday at 4:00 p.m. at the UDSM Sports Grounds, where they can exercise, interact with colleagues, and contribute to building a healthier and more connected University community.