On 23rd October 2024, the University of Dar es Salaam (UDSM) and NMB Bank Tanzania entered a five-year partnership to drive innovation, talent development, and digital transformation across the country.
The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed at NMB’s headquarters, is set to enhance education, technology, and financial inclusion, aligning with Tanzania’s long-term economic growth vision.
Under the agrement, UDSM’s College of Information and Communication Technologies (CoICT) will offer human and intellectual resources to support the NMB in accelerating the development and launch of new products and services.
This will focus on areas like fintech, blockchain, data analytics, AI, and cybersecurity, enabling the creation of innovative solutions that meet changing customer demands.
Representing UDSM, Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Research Prof. Nelson Boniface, alongside NMB’s Chief Human Resources Officer, Emmanuel Akonaay, expressed optimism about the partnership’s potential to create new collaborative pathways in talent acquisition, digital transformation, and research.
Prof. Boniface emphasized that Artificial Intelligence (AI) will play a key role in the initiative, aiming to make AI accessible and relevant to Tanzanian industries.
He highlighted: “Our goal is to empower young minds with the skills to innovate and lead. We are also committed to exploring AI’s role, focusing on its relevance to Tanzanian business contexts.”
Prof. Boniface highlighted that the collaboration supports Tanzania Vision 2025 and UDSM Vision 2061, both of which prioritize human capital development and technological advancement.
He added that the partnership aligns with UDSM’s mission to be a regional leader in impactful research and technology.
On his part, Akonaay underscored the bank’s commitment to fostering education and skill development as essential elements of its Corporate Social Investment Strategy.
He highlighted: “Through this partnership, we’re equipping young Tanzanians with the skills to drive economic and technological progress.”
Digital Transformation In Tanzania
The Tanzanian government has been proactive in driving digital transformation through strategic initiatives such as the National Digital Economy Strategy (2024-2034) and revisions to the National ICT Policy of 2016.
These frameworks are designed to enhance broadband access, improve network quality, and promote digital literacy among citizens.
As of January 2024, there were approximately 21.82 million internet users in the country, reflecting an internet penetration rate of 31.9%.
This represents an increase of about 626,000 users from the previous year, highlighting the ongoing efforts to enhance digital access.
However, it is noteworthy that 68.1% of the population remains offline, indicating that while progress is being made, substantial challenges still exist in achieving universal internet access.
