TANGA: PRIME Minister Mwigulu Nchemba has directed the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology and its institutions to ensure innovations developed by Tanzanians move beyond exhibitions to production and commercialisation to address challenges and drive economic growth.

The Premier made the statement in Tanga today, August 24, 2026, when closing the National Education, Skills and Innovation Week, calling for a stronger system to help innovators transform ideas into viable products and services.

Speaking at the event, the Prime Minister said the country has talented innovators capable of developing solutions in various fields, but stressed that greater focus was now needed on protecting, developing and commercialising their innovations.

“We must move beyond exhibitions and into real life, ensuring that what we display at events like these becomes part of our daily lives, is produced adequately, used and enters the market,” he said.

Additionally, Dr Nchemba stated that the government will continue investing in science, skills and innovation, describing them as critical pillars for transforming the national economy and accelerating development through the application of research findings and technology.

“We cannot develop without science, technology and research, and without using the results of that research. We cannot achieve productivity without applying research findings,” the PM said.

ALSO READ: Dr Chaya orders Victory Financial Services to expand its services countywide

Moreover, he warned against lowering education standards, directing institutions responsible for quality assurance to uphold academic standards and ensure Tanzania produces competent professionals capable of meeting workplace demands.

“Let us not create an environment where learning becomes easy and marks become very high, only for graduates to get big zeros at work. That is unacceptable. We must uphold the foundations of education,” he said.

Dr Nchemba said quality training was particularly critical in sensitive sectors such as health, engineering and education, warning that poorly trained professionals could undermine entire sectors.

“We cannot gamble with the health of Tanzanians. We cannot train professionals poorly and expect good results. We need competent teachers and engineers; when they build a bridge or a building, it must genuinely be a safe and quality structure,” he said.

In another directive, Dr Nchemba ordered that plans for the development of Tanga Airport take into account the region’s economic and social needs over the next 25 years, saying infrastructure being developed today must accommodate future growth in trade, investment and air transport.

He said the airport should be developed to match Tanga’s position as an important economic gateway, particularly in view of major projects being implemented in the region.

Minister for Education, Science and Technology Prof Adolf Mkenda said the week reflected the government’s efforts to implement President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s directive to strengthen education that links theory with practical skills and prepares graduates for self-employment and the labour market.