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| Dr .Samia Suluhu Hassan, President of the United Republic of Tanzania. |
The President of the United Republic of Tanzania, Honorable Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan, has today been awarded an Honorary Doctorate in Literature (Doctor of Letters – Honoris Causa) by Nasarawa State University in Nigeria.
President Dr. Samia received this degree during the Eighth Graduation Ceremony of the university, which took place at its main campus in Keffi, Nigeria, where she participated virtually from the Chamwino State House in Dodoma.Recognition of Leadership
The university conferred this honor upon President Dr. Samia in recognition of her transformative leadership that emphasizes transparency and accountability, as well as her contributions to strengthening Tanzania's economy, fostering international cooperation, and her efforts to enhance the status of women, manage maternal and child health, empower women and youth economically through the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), and promote the use of clean cooking energy across Africa.
Historic Achievement
The university has noted that President Dr. Samia is the first foreign head of state outside Nigeria to receive an Honorary Degree from them, and one of the few female leaders in Africa who have held high national leadership positions.
President Dr. Samia's Acceptance Speech
Speaking after receiving the award, President Dr. Samia expressed her humility in accepting this honor, stating that this achievement reflects the collective efforts of Tanzanians in advancing development and cooperation on the African continent.
“I accept this honor with great humility. This award is not just mine; it reflects the joint efforts of the people of Tanzania in promoting development, cooperation, and the prosperity of Africa,” said President Dr. Samia.
Leadership Journey
Reflecting on her leadership journey, President Dr. Samia noted that her experiences leading up to her high national leadership position serve as a catalyst for continuing to open opportunities and removing barriers that hinder women and youth from fully participating in leadership and development decision-making across Africa.
Notable Recipients
Some notable individuals who have been awarded Honorary Doctorates by this institution include the Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations, Ms. Amina Mohammed, along with the prominent businessman in Africa, Mr. Aliko Dangote.
Academic Collaboration Initiative
In another development, President Dr. Samia has instructed the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology to initiate discussions for academic collaboration with this university, which includes student exchanges, joint research, and programs aimed at strengthening higher education relations and fostering advancements in science, research, and innovation between Tanzania and Nigeria.
Nasarawa State University
Nasarawa State University, located in Keffi, ranks among the top universities in Nigeria, holding the second position among state universities in the country, the eighth position out of 309 universities in Nigeria, and the 36th position among universities in Sub-Saharan Africa.