The Aga Khan University in Tanzania has launched the Master of Science in Advanced Practice in Nursing (MSc APN) programme and the Centre for Innovation in Medical Education (CIME) – both of which are first of their kind in the country.
The launch ceremony, held at the Dar es Salaam campus, was graced by Dr Sulaiman Shahabuddin, AKU President and Dr Tania Bubela, Provost and Vice President, Academic. Guests also includes leaders from the Aga Khan University, Aga Khan Education Services (AKES), Aga Khan Hospital, and representatives from the Aga Khan Development Network.
“In East Africa, as in Pakistan, AKU has emerged as a leader in the use of simulation to educate and train health care professionals," said Dr Shahabuddin. “That is the case because of the University's commitment and investment in the Centre for Innovation in Medical Education over the past decade; because donors have generously supported our vision; and because of the work of key individuals like those here today."
CIME will equip students with cutting-edge skills that directly enhance patient care. This investment positions AKU as a national leader in driving innovation, research, and health system reform.
The newly launched APN programme has welcomed its inaugural cohort of 15 highly experienced professionals from leading institutions across Tanzania. These include senior figures such as Redempta Matindi, Director of Nursing Services at Muhimbili National Hospital, and Scolastica Bayongo, Chief Nursing Officer at Amana Hospital. The programme promises to raise the standard of nursing leadership and clinical expertise, preparing nurses to take on more specialized, autonomous roles in Tanzania's health system.
“The APN programme has been a game changer for me," said Matindi. “In just my first semester, I've gained invaluable skills in clinical reasoning, judgement and ethical decision making."
Chief Guest Dr Kenneth Hosea, Director of Higher Education at Tanzania's Ministry of Education, Science and Technology, praised AKU's forward thinking approach to education. He also applauded the University for offering students meaningful, hands on experiences that mirror real-world health care settings.
“We are pleased to see these developments align with our National Development Vision," he said. “The recent revisions to our education policies emphasize competency-based learning, innovation in teaching, community relevance, research and stronger health education linkages all of which are reflected in the programmes you are launching today."
A tuck shop and a library terrace were also inaugurated, further enhancing AKU's commitment to holistic and high-quality learning environments.
AKU's integrated approach combining advanced education, state-of-the-art facilities, and strong alignment with national goals has already begun influencing other institutions across the country. Local universities and healthcare providers are now looking to AKU as a model in simulation education and modern pedagogical practices.
