The Government has urged the Nelson Mandela African Institution of Science and Technology (NM-AIST) to intensify its focus on practical, innovation-driven and entrepreneurship-oriented training to ensure graduates are equipped to create jobs, employ others and address the persistent challenge of youth unemployment.

Prime Minister Hon. Mwigulu Nchemba made the remarks on February 22, 2026, during the foundation stone-laying ceremony for a new student hostel at NM-AIST.

Hon. Nchemba emphasized that technology is the key differentiator between developed and developing nations, noting that sustainable development depends on investment in science and innovation that solve real-world challenges.

“To distinguish developed nations from poorer ones, you need technology—especially technologies that address practical problems. That is why the government has invested in science and supports emerging start-ups,” he said.

He added that NM-AIST should become a hub of academic excellence, cutting-edge research and technological innovation, capable of addressing today’s global challenges.

Producing highly skilled professionals, he said, is central to implementing Tanzania’s National Development Vision 2050 and advancing the country’s sustainable development agenda.

“As we enter a highly competitive world, we must prepare individuals who are ready to compete. This cannot happen without strong institutions producing experts proficient in science and technology,” Hon. Nchemba said.

He further instructed the institution’s leadership, in collaboration with relevant ministries, to ensure optimal use of ICT, modern teaching and learning systems, and effective resource management to make the campus sustainable and globally competitive.

NM-AIST Governing Board Chairperson Hon. Maimuna Tarishi said the new three-storey hostel is part of a strategic plan to expand student accommodation capacity from 279 to 459 students. The facility will feature 184 rooms, including 160 self-contained rooms and 20 apartment-style units designed for female students with children or special needs.

She explained that each apartment includes two bedrooms, a living room, a kitchen and bathroom facilities.

The Tsh 7.9 billion project is currently 81 percent complete, with three blocks nearing completion and two at the roofing stage. The hostel is expected to be finalized by June 30, 2025.

Tarishi noted that the facility will enhance the participation of female students with children (including nursing mothers) and those with special needs in science, engineering and technology programmes.

“This facility will provide a safe and conducive learning environment, reduce commuting time and allow students to fully utilize libraries, laboratories and other academic services,” she said.

Minister for Education, Science and Technology Adolf Mkenda described NM-AIST as a unique institution established and jointly owned by African countries to attract science and technology students and renowned lecturers from across Africa and beyond.

NM-AIST Chancellor Hon. Omari Issa called on the Government to continue supporting the institution’s infrastructure and technology commercialization systems, ensuring that students’ innovations evolve into competitive start-ups and positioning NM-AIST as a leading innovation hub in Africa.