VC Prof. Anangisye Urges Freshers to Focus on Academics as Their Primary Mission
By Renancy Remmy, CMU
The Vice Chancellor of the University of Dar es Salaam (UDSM), Prof. William A. L. Anangisye, has issued a strong call to all newly admitted first-year students to remain focused on the fundamental reason they joined the University: to study, work hard, and excel academically.
Speaking during the 2025/26 Vice Chancellor’s Day, the University’s flagship orientation event for freshers across all campuses, Prof. Anangisye reminded students that university education is both a privilege and a responsibility. He urged them to approach their academic journey with seriousness, discipline, and unwavering commitment.
Addressing thousands of first year students at Mwalimu Julius K. Nyerere Main Campus, the Vice Chancellor underscored that academic excellence does not happen by chance, but through sustained effort. “Your primary responsibility is to work hard in your studies. You are here to study; so please study.”
Prof. Anangisye warned students against academic dishonesty, including plagiarism, cheating, and misuse of academic materials, stressing that such actions undermine scholarly integrity and may lead to expulsion. He reminded them that joining a community of scholars demands adherence to high ethical standards.
He also emphasized discipline and personal conduct, urging students to maintain decency in dressing, avoid harmful habits, and protect the University’s image at all times. He further stressed the need to take care of University resources, noting that they are funded through the hard-earned contributions of Tanzanian taxpayers.
Deputy Vice Chancellors reinforce a culture of excellence, discipline, and opportunity
Senior University leaders echoed the Vice Chancellor’s message, offering further guidance to the new cohort.
Prof. Bonaventure Rutinwa, the Deputy Vice Chancellor–Academic, represented by Prof. Baraka Maiseli, Principal of College of Information and Communication Technologies (CoICT), congratulated students on securing admission through a highly competitive process. He reminded them that academics must remain their top priority.
He outlined critical academic requirements such as timely registration, fee payment, class attendance, and strict adherence to examination rules. Prof. Maiseli cautioned students that failure to meet these standards, or scoring below the pass mark, could result in discontinuation.
He also warned against inappropriate use of Artificial Intelligence tools, noting that using AI to write assignments constitutes academic misconduct.
Representing the Deputy Vice Chancellor–Planning, Finance and Administration, Prof. Bernadeta Killian, the Director of Postgraduate Studies, Prof. Rose Upor, highlighted the University’s extensive student services, including accommodation, health care, sports, and facilities for students with disabilities.
She urged students to uphold discipline in residence halls, respect others, maintain acceptable dress codes, and participate constructively in student leadership. She strongly emphasized gender equality and the importance of reporting harassment.
The Deputy Vice Chancellor for Research, Prof. Nelson Boniface, encouraged students to immerse themselves in research and innovation, noting that UDSM offers numerous opportunities for scientific inquiry and creative exploration.
He urged them to publish in credible journals, protect their intellectual property, and maintain a healthy balance between their mental, physical, and spiritual well-being.
The University’s Chief Legal Officer and Secretary to Council, Prof. Saudin Mwakaje, advised students to familiarize themselves with all University regulations, stressing that “ignorance of the law is not an excuse.” He affirmed that legal support is available to students seeking guidance, but emphasized that maintaining law and order is essential for campus harmony.
A journey of excellence begins
Principals, deans, and directors joined the University leadership in welcoming the new students and encouraging them to seize every opportunity available at UDSM.
Prof. Anangisye concluded with a firm reminder that the University will not tolerate disruptions to academic activities.
He urged freshers to be disciplined, focused, and purpose-driven, noting that UDSM has shaped generations of Tanzania’s leaders, and that many of the nation’s future innovators, professionals, and policymakers are seated in this cohort.