Science investment key to Vision 2050 success

ARUSHA: THE Nelson Mandela African Institution of Science and Technology (NM-AIST) has called for greater investment in higher education, research and innovation to produce highly skilled professionals capable of driving the implementation of Development Vision 2050 and Africa’s development agenda.

Speaking during the institution’s 12th graduation ceremony in Tengeru, Arusha, NMAIST Chancellor, Mr Omari Issa said the institution has a critical role in nurturing professionals equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to develop solutions to challenges facing Tanzania and the African continent.

“Global development increasingly depends on investment in science, technology and innovation, making higher learning institutions important centres for generating knowledge, skilled professionals and technologies that can accelerate development,” Mr Issa said.

He said universities must strengthen research and innovation that produce practical solutions for communities and productive sectors of the economy. NM-AIST ViceChancellor Professor Maulilio Kipanyula said 138 graduates completed master’s and doctoral programmes during the ceremony, while the institution has produced 219 scientific publications and secured seven patents.

He said NM-AIST would continue encouraging students and researchers to develop products, make discoveries and publish research in internationally recognised scientific journals.

Prof Kipanyula added that 19 NM-AIST researchers had been recognised through awards from the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology for publishing in highly ranked scientific journals.

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“We will continue transforming knowledge into innovation, innovation into products and services and research into solutions that address society’s challenges while advancing Development Vision 2050,” he said.

Chairperson of the NMAIST Council, Ambassador Maimuna Tarish urged the institution to ensure research, technology and innovation are translated into practical products and services that address challenges facing communities.

“Innovation should not remain on paper or end with patent registration. It must be translated into practical action to solve society’s challenges,” Amb Tarish said.

She also urged graduates to use the knowledge and skills acquired at NM-AIST to serve Tanzania and the wider African continent.