Partnership with ZBS promises elevation of engineering standards and research at UDSM
By Jackson Isdory, CMU
The University of Dar es Salaam (UDSM) and the Zanzibar Bureau of Standards (ZBS) have agreed to partner in advancing engineering standards, quality assurance, and research excellence.
The ceremony for signing the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the two institutions was held at UDSM on 15th November 2024, and was presided over by Prof. Nelson Boniface, UDSM Deputy Vice Chancellor-Research who represented the Vice Chancellor, Prof. William Anangisye; and Mr. Yusuph Nassor, ZBS Director General.
Prof. Nelson Boniface, UDSM Deputy Vice Chancellor-Research, said the partnership marked a significant milestone in fostering innovation and enhancing Tanzania's industrial and academic landscapes and aligned with both institutions' shared commitment to foster innovation, enhance industrial competitiveness, and improve product and service standards in Tanzania.
“This agreement reinforces our position as a hub for innovation and industry collaboration. It provides our students and researchers unparalleled opportunities to engage in transformative projects contributing to national development”, said Prof. Boniface.
Mr. Yusufu Nassor, the Director General of ZBS, highlighted the far-reaching impact of the collaboration. “This partnership with UDSM College of Engineering and Technology (CoET) and the Bureau of Industrial Cooperation (BICO) will enrich the practical training of graduates, uphold ethical standards, and drive economic growth by improving the quality of goods and services in Zanzibar and beyond”.
The MoU establishes a framework for collaboration between the two civil and mechanical engineering institutions with key areas of focus including joint research initiatives such as material testing, structural analysis, and engineering standards.
Other areas include sharing facilities for research, testing, and experimentation; conducting workshops, seminars, and hands-on training in quality assurance and engineering techniques; developing and promoting engineering standards and protocols for national and regional use.
Empowering students and advancing careers
The partnership promises to benefit UDSM students and faculty alike. Prof. Bakari Mwinyiwiwa, the Principal of CoET, emphasized its value to academic and professional development. “Our students will gain invaluable real-world experience, practical training, and exposure to industry benchmarks, ensuring they are well-prepared to excel in their careers”.
Dr. Eva Shayo, UDSM’s Industrial Liaison Officer, highlighted the broader implications for academia and industry. "This collaboration reflects our commitment to bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and industry needs, equipping our graduates with hands-on skills that are meaningfully related to the international labour market and national progress”.
A vision for sustainable growth
The five-year MoU includes provisions for annual evaluations to ensure continued progress and adaptability to emerging challenges. The MoU will remain in effect for five years, with provisions for annual reviews to assess progress and refine objectives. It also underscores a commitment to mutual growth, resource sharing, and pursuing excellence in engineering and research.
Mr. Ali Ahmad Ali, ZBS’s Director of Testing and Metrology, emphasized the quality of goods and services and stressed that “the partnership will strengthen our technical capacity and reinforce the role of standardization in enhancing product and service quality, which is critical in driving Zanzibar economic growth”.
The UDSM-ZBS alliance sets a new benchmark for academia-industry collaborations, addressing national challenges, driving innovation, and fostering economic growth. By enhancing the quality of education, goods, and services, this partnership exemplifies a shared vision of excellence, empowering future generations and uplifting communities across Tanzania.