UDSM, EWURA and ZERA Explore Strategic Partnership in Research, Scholarships and Capacity Building
Selemani Nambimbi, CMU
The University of Dar es Salaam (UDSM) is set to initiate the process of signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Energy and Water Utilities Regulatory Authority (EWURA) to strengthen collaboration in research, scholarships, professional training and other strategic areas of mutual interest.
The commitment was reaffirmed by the Deputy Vice Chancellor – Academic, Prof. Rose Upor, on behalf of the Vice Chancellor, Prof. William A. L. Anangisye, when she received a delegation from EWURA and the Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority (ZERA) at the University.
The delegation was led by the Chairperson of the EWURA Board of Directors, Prof. Mark Mwandosya, during a visit aimed at exploring opportunities for institutional collaboration.
Prof. Upor said the proposed partnership would create a strong platform for the two institutions to jointly contribute to national development by leveraging UDSM’s academic expertise and research capacity to address emerging challenges in the energy and water sectors.
“The University of Dar es Salaam is committed to strengthening partnerships that create impact. We look forward to formalising our collaboration with EWURA through a Memorandum of Understanding that will expand opportunities in research, scholarships, staff development and knowledge exchange for the benefit of both institutions and the country,” said Prof. Upor.
Prof. Upor also highlighted UDSM’s ongoing efforts in advancing clean energy and sustainable development through research, innovation and practical implementation across its campuses.
She explained that the University continues to promote the adoption of clean cooking energy technologies and increased utilisation of electricity for cooking in student hostels and other university facilities as part of national efforts to accelerate the transition to clean energy.
In addition, UDSM has expanded the use of solar energy systems to power selected facilities while supporting research and innovation in renewable energy technologies, energy efficiency and sustainable energy solutions.
According to Prof. Upor, these initiatives demonstrate the University’s commitment to providing evidence-based solutions that contribute to Tanzania’s energy transition and environmental sustainability.
She further noted that UDSM continues to work closely with industry partners, investors and stakeholders from various sectors to support research, innovation and technology development that addresses real-world challenges.
“Our collaboration with industry ensures that research conducted at the University responds directly to national and industrial needs. Through these partnerships, we are transforming research outcomes into practical innovations that contribute to industrial growth, economic development and improved livelihoods,” she said.
Development of human capital through scholarships and specialized training
During the discussions, Prof. Mark Mwandosya underscored the importance of strengthening collaboration between UDSM and EWURA, particularly in developing human capital through postgraduate scholarships and specialised training programmes for staff.
He noted that investing in local universities would not only enhance professional competencies but also strengthen Tanzania’s higher education system by enabling institutions to provide solutions to national priorities.
“There are many areas where UDSM and EWURA can work together. Supporting our staff to pursue advanced studies and specialised training at UDSM will help build the expertise required to respond to the evolving needs of the energy sector while strengthening our local institutions,” he said.
The visit marks another important step in strengthening collaboration between academia and regulatory institutions, reflecting a shared commitment to promoting research excellence, innovation, capacity building and sustainable national development.