The Nelson Mandela African Institution of Science and Technology (NM-AIST) has hosted a delegation from the University of Limerick, Ireland, on 24 March 2026, as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen international collaboration in education, research, and innovation through the Samia Scholarship Extended Data Science and Artificial Intelligence (SSE DS/AI+) programme.

Speaking during the visit, the Deputy Vice Chancellor for Academic, Research and Innovation at NM-AIST, Professor Anthony Mshandete, noted that the visit has opened new opportunities in key priority areas, including the commercialization of research outputs and the advancement of Artificial Intelligence and science programmes, which are expected to accelerate technological development in the country.

On his part, the Vice President for International Engagement and Community at the University of Limerick, Professor Colin Fitzpatrick, expressed his appreciation for meeting highly talented and capable students at NM-AIST. He highlighted that the University of Limerick attracts outstanding students from across the world and provides them with a rich international experience.

He further commended the students’ preparedness and the strong scholarship support system that enables them to excel academically.

The Bootcamp Coordinator at NM-AIST and Head of the School of Business (BuSH), Professor Lilian Pasape, emphasized that the visit presents a valuable opportunity for students.

She noted that the University of Limerick is among the leading institutions globally in integrating academic learning with industry and corporate sectors. Through the Samia Scholarship Extended Data Science and Artificial Intelligence (SSE DS/AI+) programme, 32 out of 50 students have been selected to join the university, demonstrating the programme’s quality and increasing graduates’ employability prospects.

Speaking on behalf of the scholarship beneficiaries, Ms. Anita Kulwa expressed gratitude to the Government of the Sixth Phase under the leadership of H.E. Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan for enabling many young people to access quality higher education.

She pledged to make the most of the opportunity by dedicating herself to her studies, particularly in data science and Artificial Intelligence, to contribute to national development.

Overall, the visit is expected to strengthen academic collaboration, foster innovation, and drive technological advancement through joint programmes between Tanzania and Ireland.