The government has allocated over five billion shillings to support students selected to study in the fields of Artificial Intelligence, Science, and Technology at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels. This initiative is part of a strategy to equip the nation with professionals who can adapt to the current digital transformation.
Speaking to reporters today, the Minister of Education, Science, and Technology, Adolf Mkenda, announced that the program has commenced by providing funding for 10 postgraduate students enrolled at the Nelson Mandela African Institution of Science and Technology, specializing in Artificial Intelligence and Science and Technology.He further mentioned that an additional 10 students are expected to be sent to study at the Indian Institute of Technology Madras Zanzibar, as a step towards strengthening national capacity in strategic disciplines.
"Artificial Intelligence will bring about significant advancements across various sectors. As a nation, we must build our capacity by having enough qualified professionals. The President recognizes this, which is why he has emphasized the importance of our youth seizing these opportunities," stated Prof. Mkenda.
The Minister indicated that the government has already begun implementing the President's promise to send youth abroad to study Data Science, Artificial Intelligence, and other critical fields through the Samia Scholarship program.
According to him, 16 students have already been sent to study in South Africa, with another 34 expected to travel to Ireland in July this year.
He stressed that this investment in higher education is a part of Tanzania's preparation to enter a knowledge-based economy, which relies heavily on innovation, technology, and advanced skills.