News

By Zamda George, CMU

In a significant precursor to the much-anticipated foundation stone laying ceremony scheduled for 5^th January 2025, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Blue Economy and Fisheries, Revolutionary Government of Zanzibar, Captain Hamad Bakar Hamad, met with UDSM Vice Chancellor, Prof. William Anangisye and other varsity leaders to finalise preparations for the event and discuss key areas of collaboration.

The discussions were held in the serene ambiance of the Institute of Marine Sciences (IMS) in Buyu, Chukwani, Zanzibar one day ahead of the foundation stone laying for the IMS academic and administration building that would be officiated by the President of Zanzibar and Chairman of the Revolutionary Council H. E. Dr. Hussein Ali Mwinyi.

This meeting marked a pivotal moment in strengthening the collaborative framework between the Ministry and the University on the shared commitment to advancing research and research collaborations, underlining the UDSM’s critical role in implementation of the blue economy policies with tangible impacts on communities.

Captain Hamad Bakar Hamad emphasised the importance of this partnership remarking that “The blue economy is a lifeline for Zanzibar’s sustainable development. We deeply value the expertise and research output of the Institute of Marine Sciences”.

He stressed that “the collaboration would ensure that policies are not only data-driven but also community-centered, creating a direct positive impact on the livelihoods of our people.”

Impactful research and capacity-building

Meanwhile, Prof. William Anangisye underscored the University’s dedication to fostering impactful research and capacity-building and was proud to be a trusted partner of the Ministry of Blue Economy and Fisheries.

“Together, we are ensuring that research is not confined to academic journals but serves as a foundation for policies and innovations that benefit society”, said Prof. Anangisye.

Other UDSM leaders present at the meeting were Prof. Bernadeta Killian, UDSM Deputy Vice Chancellor-Planning, Finance, and Administration and HEET Coordinator; and Prof. Saudin Mwakaje, who serves as UDSM Corporate Counsel and Secretary to the Council.

Prof. Killian highlighted the institution’s role in developing skilled human resources for the blue economy. “Our mission is to provide the Ministry and the broader blue economy sector with a well-trained workforce. This partnership exemplifies how academia and government can work hand in hand to address critical development challenges”.

A notable point of discussion was the mutual acknowledgment of the role IMS plays in equipping the blue economy sector with specialised staff. Both parties agreed to prioritise capacity-building initiatives that ensure a steady pipeline of talent tailored to the needs of the Ministry of Blue Economy and Fisheries.

Prof. Saudin Mwakaje applauded the Ministry for its unwavering support and commitment to collaborative efforts. “The IMS remains a beacon of research excellence in the region. The ongoing support from the Ministry and the Revolutionary Government of Zanzibar is pivotal in sustaining this excellence and fostering mutual collaboration that benefits all stakeholders,” he noted.

A testament of the collaborative efforts

UDSM leaders thanked the Revolutionary Government of Zanzibar and the Ministry of Blue Economy and Fisheries for the steadfast support and visionary leadership which are instrumental in forging the partnership that has become a model for government-academic collaboration in the region.

On the stone laying ceremony to be held on 5^th January 2025, they said it would stand as a testament to these collaborative efforts and their shared vision for a sustainable and prosperous blue economy. This historic milestone will further solidify the bonds between the Ministry and the University, setting the stage for greater achievements in the future.