Why ESG Matters: University Council Strengthens Leadership for a Changing World
By Donald Boneka, CMU
The University of Dar es Salaam (UDSM) Council has reaffirmed its commitment to sustainable leadership and institutional excellence through a two-day training programme on Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) principles, organised in collaboration with UONGOZI Institute.
The programme, which commenced on 22 June 2026, brought together members of the University Council to deepen their understanding of emerging sustainability trends, governance frameworks and ESG practices that are increasingly shaping the future of higher education institutions worldwide.
Opening the training, the Chairperson of UDSM Council, Hon. Ambassador Mwanaidi Maajar, said universities can no longer focus solely on teaching and research but must also position themselves as champions of responsible leadership, accountability and sustainable development.
“Universities must position themselves to respond to emerging global challenges and rising stakeholder expectations. Integrating ESG principles into our governance systems is essential for ensuring institutional sustainability and creating lasting impact for society,” she said.
Meanwhile, UDSM Vice Chancellor, Prof. William A. L. Anangisye said that as institutions navigate an increasingly complex global environment marked by climate change, technological transformation and growing demands for accountability, strengthening governance systems has become imperative.
The training was facilitated by experts from EY Tanzania, led by the firm's Country Managing Partner, CPA Joseph G. Sheftu, who highlighted the growing significance of ESG as a strategic tool for institutional resilience and long-term value creation.
“ESG is no longer just a compliance requirement; it has become a strategic imperative. Organisations that embrace ESG principles are better positioned to manage risks, seize opportunities and deliver sustainable value to their stakeholders,” said CPA Sheftu.
Sustainability Begins with Good Governance
CPA Sheftu further underscored the critical role of governance in safeguarding institutional credibility and relevance.
“Good governance is the foundation upon which sustainability is built. Institutions must embed ESG considerations into their decision-making processes and risk management frameworks to remain resilient in a rapidly changing environment,” he added.
Also facilitating the programme was FCPA Dr. Neema Kiure, Assurance Partner at Ernst & Young Tanzania, who guided participants through discussions on ESG strategy, risk management and operational integration.
She emphasized that successful ESG implementation requires institutions to move beyond policy commitments and translate sustainability ambitions into measurable actions.
“ESG strategy formulation should be aligned with an institution's mission and long-term aspirations. Universities need to identify and prioritise climate-related issues, social impact areas and governance considerations that are most material to their stakeholders,” she said.
Dr. Kiure further noted that higher learning institutions must proactively identify and manage sustainability-related risks if they are to remain resilient and responsive to future challenges.
“Developing an ESG risk register enables institutions to systematically identify emerging risks and opportunities, strengthen resilience and ensure accountability in delivering sustainable outcomes,” she explained.
Throughout the programme, Council members explored the evolving global and national ESG landscape and its implications for higher education institutions.
The sessions also examined internationally recognised sustainability frameworks and standards, including IFRS S1 and S2, the International Sustainability Standards Board (ISSB), the Sustainability Accounting Standards Board (SASB), the Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures (TCFD), the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the African Union's Agenda 2063.
Discussions further focused on ESG-related risks and opportunities facing universities, governance structures, risk management integration and accountability mechanisms aimed at promoting responsible and sustainable leadership.
The training forms part of UDSM's broader efforts to strengthen institutional governance and align its operations with international best practices.
By investing in sustainability-oriented leadership and equipping its governing organs with contemporary sustainability knowledge, the University continues to reinforce its position as a leading institution of higher learning committed to resilience, accountability and sustainable development in support of national and global aspirations.