The Government of Tanzania, through the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology, has emphasized the critical role of inter-university collaboration as a catalyst for knowledge generation, innovation, and sustainable development. Such partnerships, it emphasized, are essential for safeguarding future generations.
This message was delivered by Professor Carolyne Nombo, Tanzania's Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, during the official opening of the Second Scientific Conference of the Five University Consortium, held in Morogoro. The Consortium comprises Sokoine University of Agriculture (SUA), the University of Dar es Salaam (UDSM), the Aga Khan University (AKU), the Nelson Mandela African Institution of Science and Technology (NM-AIST), and Simon Fraser University (SFU), Canada.
Professor Nombo commended the Consortium's collective efforts and emphasized that such academic alliances are vital in tackling global issues, including climate change, food insecurity, fragile health systems, and social inequality.
The conference, hosted by SUA, provided a platform for scholars, policymakers, and professionals to engage in dialogue on inclusive and climate-resilient development.
“This gathering is a testament to the power of academic partnerships in shaping solutions that are both locally grounded and globally impactful," said Dr Tania Bubela, AKU Provost and Vice President Academic.
By promoting interdisciplinary dialogue and regional cooperation, the event strengthens the capacity of academic institutions to translate knowledge into practical, inclusive, and sustainable solutions for communities across East Africa and beyond.
“Global challenges require global solutions that incorporate perspectives and research from around the world," said Dr Joy Johnson, SFU President. “SFU is proud to be a member of the 5UC and to collaborate on community-centered research projects and learning initiatives around food security, agritech innovations, crop diversification, and public health."
“This partnership is about tackling climate change, health, water, and data analytics through shared expertise and aligned resources. It's about building inclusive and climate-resilient societies for our collective survival," said Dr Emmanuel Sulle, Director of AKU's Arusha Climate and Environmental Research Centre.
The conference concluded with a meeting of Vice Chancellors from the five universities, reaffirming their commitment to deepening collaboration and advancing the consortium's shared vision for inclusive and sustainable development.
