From Lecture Hall to Mine Site: UDSM Deepens Industry-Ready Training with High-Tech Boost from AngloGold Ashanti
Renancy Remmy, CMU
The University of Dar es Salaam (UDSM) has taken a significant step toward strengthening industry-responsive learning, research and innovation following the donation of ten high-performance desktop computers, by AngloGold Ashanti, designed to align academic training with the technological demands of modern industry.
These computers, tailored for data-intensive, simulation-based and software-driven applications, are expected to enhance technology-enabled teaching, practical training and research across the University, with particular impact on mining, geosciences, engineering and environmental studies.
The donation was officially handed over during a ceremony at UDSM’s New Council Chamber, attended by University leadership, representatives from AngloGold Ashanti, academic staff and students, underscoring the growing importance of university–industry collaboration in skills development and innovation.
Speaking at the event, UDSM Vice Chancellor Prof. William A. L. Anangisye described the support as timely and strategic, noting that access to advanced digital tools is now central to quality higher education.
“These facilities help bridge the gap between classroom learning and industry practice. They strengthen hands-on training and ensure that our graduates are familiar with the digital systems used in contemporary mining and geoscience operations,” said Prof. Anangisye.
He explained that the computers will directly support practical training in mining engineering, geological sciences, geophysics, mineral processing, environmental geoscience and surveying.
Equipped with industry-standard software for geological modelling, mine planning, geographic information systems (GIS), geostatistics, mineral resource estimation and environmental impact assessment, the facilities will enable students to apply theory to real-world challenges.
The Vice Chancellor emphasised that the donation strengthens both teaching and research by enhancing students’ digital competencies while supporting academic staff in delivering high-quality, industry-aligned instruction.
“Access to technology today is not a luxury; it is a requirement for innovation, productivity and competitiveness, for both individuals and institutions,” he added.
Beyond teaching, the enhanced computing capacity is expected to benefit researchers by supporting advanced data analysis, numerical modelling, remote sensing, innovation projects and collaborative research with industry partners.
The central role of digital technology
Representing AngloGold Ashanti, Mr. Simon Shayo, Vice President for Sustainability and Corporate Affairs Africa, highlighted the central role of digital technology in improving safety, efficiency and sustainability in the mining sector.
“Digital systems now enable real-time monitoring, risk prediction and proactive safety management. They also strengthen environmental performance through accurate tracking of energy use, water management, land rehabilitation and emissions reduction”, said Mr Shayo.
He noted that technology has evolved from a support function into a core operational pillar, particularly in safety and regulatory compliance.
“Safety is non-negotiable. Digital systems allow us to anticipate risks before they become incidents. By supporting access to these tools at UDSM, we are investing in future engineers and geoscientists who will drive safer and more sustainable industries,” he added.
Highlighting the broader value of the partnership, UDSM Director of Public Service, Prof. Neema Mori said strong industry linkages are essential to keeping academic programmes aligned with national development priorities and labour market needs.
She noted that such collaborations strengthen applied research, student industrial training, innovation and community engagement, while enabling joint problem-solving on real-world challenges in mining, environmental management and natural resource governance.
Tanzania’s leading centre of excellence in mining and geoscience
Further appreciation was expressed by the Dean of the School of Mines and Geosciences (SoMG), Prof. Elisante Mshiu, who described the School as Tanzania’s leading centre of excellence in mining and geoscience education.
“The donated computers address a critical gap in access to high-performance computing, which is essential for modern mining and geoscience training,” said Prof. Mshiu.
He explained that the new facilities will support large datasets, three-dimensional geological modelling, mine design simulations, geophysical interpretation, environmental monitoring and risk analysis—areas previously constrained by limited computing capacity.
“This donation significantly strengthens our ability to deliver practice-oriented, industry-aligned education and ensures that our students gain hands-on experience with the same digital tools used in professional practice,” he said, assuring stakeholders of proper maintenance and effective utilisation of the equipment.
The donation builds on a long-standing partnership between UDSM and AngloGold Ashanti dating back to the early 2000s. Over the years, the collaboration has included student industrial training placements, field excursions, staff exchange programmes, guest lectures and joint initiatives aimed at aligning academic training with the evolving needs of the extractive and environmental sectors.