Lecturers from the University of Dodoma (UDOM), led by the Principal of the College of Natural and Mathematical Sciences, Prof. Jefta Sunzu, visited the National Institute for Medical Research (NIMR) headquarters today, November 25, 2024. The visit aimed to discuss potential collaboration in teaching, supervision, and internship placements for students, as well as co-authoring publications and joint research projects.
This initiative stems from the Higher Education for Economic Transformation (HEET) Project, which emphasizes partnerships between institutions to equip higher education students with practical skills and expertise in their respective fields.
During the meeting, NIMR Director General, Prof. Said Aboud, highlighted the institute’s infrastructure, including internationally accredited laboratories and a team of experienced experts. He explained how NIMR can contribute to enhancing students’ knowledge and skills. Prof. Aboud also announced plans to review and strengthen the existing Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between NIMR and UDOM to facilitate the commencement of this collaboration as soon as possible.
On his part, Prof. Jefta Sunzu, Dean of the College of Natural and Mathematical Sciences at UDOM, expressed the university’s strategy to improve curricula by incorporating insights from various institutions, including NIMR. He noted that this process is nearing completion and will enable students to engage in practical training for over eight weeks, a significant improvement from previous arrangements.
“We are very grateful to NIMR for demonstrating such a high level of readiness to work with UDOM in diverse areas,” emphasized Prof. Sunzu.
This collaboration is expected to boost efficiency, enhance research education, and prepare skilled professionals for the future of Tanzania.