Council Charts New Ground During Strategic Visit to UDSM-MRI in Dodoma
By Jackson Isdory, CMU
In a bold demonstration of strategic oversight and commitment to academic excellence, the University of Dar es Salaam (UDSM) Council conducted a high-level visit to its Mineral Resources Institute (MRI) in Dodoma on 20 June 2025.
Championed by CPA Moremi Marwa, the Deputy Chairperson of the UDSM Council, the visit aimed to assess infrastructure development, reinforce institutional governance, and engage directly with students and staff to promote academic excellence.
“This visit is not only a statutory obligation, but a manifestation of our shared responsibility to ensure that every UDSM student and staff member thrives in an environment that fosters learning, research, and innovation, particularly in the mining sector,” said CPA Marwa.
The delegation conducted a thorough inspection of MRI’s teaching and learning infrastructure, including classrooms, ICT systems, laboratories, staff offices, accommodation, and recreational facilities. Special emphasis was placed on aligning these resources with UDSM’s Strategic Plan and the national drive for industrial development through technical education.
In an open dialogue with students, CPA Marwa underscored the Council’s commitment to creating environments that reflect the University’s aspiration to be a premier higher education institution in the region.
“Quality infrastructure is not a luxury, it is the foundation of academic excellence and a true reflection of our institutional values,” he noted.
Prof. William A. L. Anangisye, UDSM Vice Chancellor, emphasized that the MRI is integral to UDSM and its long-term vision.
“This visit exemplifies our commitment to integrated governance. MRI is a vital pillar in our transformation agenda and key to unlocking the potential of Tanzania’s vast mineral wealth,an endowmentthat requires critical minds and investment to develop and benefit from,” he said.
Eng. Elvanus Kapira, Director of MRI, expressed gratitude to the Council for prioritizing the Dodoma campus.
“Yes, we face challenges, but we also see opportunities. The commitment of our staff and quality of our students give us confidence in our path forward,” he affirmed.
Students welcoming inclusive leadership
Student leaders welcomed the Council’s visit as a sign of inclusive governance. Mr. Ifraji Kaungu, Chairperson of MRI DARUSO, remarked: “This engagement assures us that we are seen and heard. We hope it leads to improved services and stronger integration with UDSM’s overall success story”.
A Member of the UDSM Council representing the broader student body, Mr. Emmanuel William, DARUSO President, applauded the Council’s hands-on approach. “As student leaders, we champion equal academic experiences across campuses. This visit offers encouragement and also leadership learning for us.
Voices from academia and governance
Prof. John Mahugija, outgoing Chairperson of UDSM Academic Staff Assembly (UDASA) and Council Member, called for deeper investment in both human and physical resources:
“While buildings matter, we must equally invest in academic culture, research, publication, and staff development to meet the demands of a knowledge-based economy”, he said.
Eng. Mary Swai, Council Member and Chair of the Estates Committee, emphasized the importance of safety and resilience. “Our assessment revealed progress and areas needing attention. We will align future development with standards of safety, sustainability, and functionality”.
Ambassador Tuvako Manongi, UDSM Council Member and President of the University Convocation, praised MRI’s pivotal role: “MRI is the hands-on engine of UDSM’s academic ecosystem. I am proud of how it is shaping the next generation of leaders in the extractive industries.”
During an internal session with MRI staff, Ms. Hilda Kinanga, Director of Human Resource Management and Administration, led discussions on performance, morale, and institutional efficiency.
“We are here to listen and respond. Our goal is to support our staff to thrive both professionally and personally,” she noted.
Driving a shared future
As the visit concluded with holding of the official Council meeting held at the Institute, CPA Marwa reinforced the Council’s commitment:
“This visit is not ceremonial, it signals our serious institutional dedication to growth, quality, and a shared purpose. Together, we are shaping a more resilient and globally competitive UDSM.”
This milestone visit to MRI-Dodoma underscores the University Council’s vision for inclusive development, institutional accountability, and excellence across all campuses, entrenching UDSM firmly on the path toward national and global academic leadership.