Deputy Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology, Dr. Wilson Charles Mahera, has called on various stakeholders to contribute to the advancement of women’s education in Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, and Innovation (STEM). This initiative aims to empower women to tackle the challenges faced by society and industry.

Dr. Mahera made these remarks on September 22, 2024, during the opening of the Nelson Mandela Marathon, organized by the Nelson Mandela African Institution of Science and Technology. The marathon’s motto, “Strive for Science, Step for Success,” seeks to inspire girls and women to pursue studies in STEM and creative fields at the Master’s and Doctorate levels.

“The motto of this race aligns with our government’s mission to promote Science, Engineering, Technology, and Innovation, facilitating the development of innovative products for society and industry,” Dr. Mahera stated.

He also commended the Nelson Mandela Institution for organizing the event, which included participants with special needs, encouraging them to continue their support for the efforts of the Sixth Phase Government under President Hon. Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan. The Vice Chancellor of the institution, Prof. Maulilio Kipanyula, explained that this was the first race aimed at increasing female participation in higher education, particularly at the Master’s and PhD levels in STEM fields.

“Currently, female students represent 30 percent of our Master’s and Doctorate programs. We aim to raise this number to 50 percent, which is why we organized this race to inspire motivation,” – Prof. Kipanyula.

He also expressed gratitude to government leaders who attended the race’s opening, including Tanzanian Ambassador to South Africa, Hon. James Mr. and Director of the Meru District Council, Mwl. Zainabu Makwinya. The event attracted 600 participants from various parts of the country and neighbouring regions.

The 2024 Nelson Mandela Marathon featured 5 km, 10 km, and 21 km races. In the women’s 10 km event, Sara Ramadhani claimed first place, while Faraja Lazaro won the men’s category, with both receiving cash prizes. The top three winners in the men’s and women’s categories received 700,000 TZS, 500,000 TZS, and 300,000 TZS respectively.

In the 21 km half marathon, Nataria Elisanti secured first place for women, and Michael Gerald won for men, with prizes of 1,000,000 TZS, 750,000 TZS, and 500,000 TZS for the top three.

In the special needs category for the 21 km race, Shukuru Alfani took first place, followed by Nasri Juma in second.

Sponsors who contributed to the success of the race included the Public Service Social Security Funds (PSSSF), Coca-Cola Bonite Bottlers Limited, Kilimanjaro Drinking Water, National Insurance Corporation (NIC), Tanzania Commission for Science and Technology (COSTECH), Ibra Line Filling Station, Beyond Experience Limited, Land Africa, Serengeti Safari Marathon, Tanzania Sports Medicine Association, Tanzania Red Cross Society, Scout Tanzania, Pamoja Fitness Bonanza, Tanzania Athletics Association, and Arusha Regional Athletics Association.