UDSM Deepens Strategic Partnerships to Drive Research and Innovation for National Development
By Selemani Nambimbi, CMU
The University of Dar es Salaam (UDSM) is intensifying efforts to build strategic partnerships with government institutions, industry, development partners and the private sector to accelerate the commercialization of research and innovation for greater societal impact.
The University's Vice Chancellor, Prof. William A. L. Anangisye, reaffirmed this commitment during his visit to the UDSM pavilion at the ongoing 50th Dar es Salaam International Trade Fair (DITF), popularly known as Sabasaba, where he toured a range of research and innovation projects developed by the University's researchers and innovators.
Speaking to exhibitors, Prof. Anangisye said collaboration remains central to ensuring that innovations developed at UDSM move beyond laboratories and reach communities, industries and markets where they can address real-life challenges.
“The University is doing a great deal to build partnerships because research and innovation achieve their greatest value when they are translated into practical solutions that improve people's lives. We must continue strengthening collaboration with government, industry, investors and development partners so that our innovations can be commercialised and create meaningful socio-economic impact," he said.
He noted that although UDSM continues to produce high-quality research and innovative technologies, strategic partnerships are essential in scaling up innovations, attracting investment and facilitating technology transfer for national development.
Among the innovations showcased was a digital health insurance system developed by Eng. Arthur Assenga, which integrates health insurance services with mobile phone networks.
The innovation enables users to pay insurance premiums through mobile phones, helping them maintain uninterrupted access to healthcare services while expanding financial inclusion through digital technology.
After inspecting the innovation, Prof. Anangisye commended the developer for designing a practical solution that responds to the country's healthcare financing needs.
“This is the kind of innovation that demonstrates how research can solve everyday challenges. Through strong partnerships, such technologies can reach more people and make a significant contribution to improving healthcare service delivery”, he said.
The Vice Chancellor also visited the Tanzania Development Technology Centre (TDTC), where researchers are exhibiting locally developed industrial technologies, including a paint filling machine, a construction sand sieving machine and a cashew shelling machine. The machines are designed to improve productivity, reduce production costs and support industrial development.
He praised the researchers for developing home-grown technologies tailored to local needs, while urging them to strengthen their engagement with industry and other stakeholders to expand the adoption of their innovations.
“You already have solutions to many of the challenges facing our communities. The next step is to make these innovations visible, build strong partnerships and ensure they reach the people and industries that need them most”, Prof. Anangisye said.
The UDSM pavilion continues to attract thousands of visitors at the 50th DITF, providing a platform for the University to showcase its achievements in research, innovation, technology and community engagement.
The exhibition also reflects UDSM's growing emphasis on strategic partnerships as a catalyst for transforming knowledge into practical solutions that contribute to Tanzania's sustainable development.