How Tanzanians are securing study abroad opportunities

For many students, studying abroad is a cherished dream, offering the chance to gain global exposure and enhance their education. However, this aspiration often comes with significant challenges, such as navigating through fraudulent agents, tackling complex application processes, and managing high costs. Fortunately, these barriers are beginning to shift as times change.

Leading international universities are now coming directly to Tanzania, bringing the once-distant opportunities closer to home.

The shift has been welcomed with enthusiasm by students, parents, and education experts alike. Tanzanians can now connect with representatives from renowned institutions, simplifying a process that was previously fraught with uncertainty.

For Mohamed Abdi, 23, a Form Four leaver with aspirations of pursuing higher education in Canada, this change has been transformative. Driven by his dream of becoming an international scholar in medicine, Mohamed aims to return to Tanzania equipped with knowledge and skills to contribute to the nation’s development.

“I went through a lot of stress trying to apply to universities abroad,” he shared. “I lost money to fake agents, and my applications kept getting rejected. It was discouraging.”

Mohamed lost nearly Sh1 million attempting to secure admission to international universities through agents, failing five times. However, his fortunes changed when he attended the ‘Study in Canada Fair’ in Dar es Salaam earlier this month. Organised by EduKwanza, a local academic consulting service, the event featured representatives from over 30 universities worldwide.

“Seeing the representatives here in Tanzania was like a dream come true,” said Mohamed. “I got direct help and started my application process immediately. It saved me so much time, money, and frustration.”

Such events are becoming common in Tanzania and across East Africa. Universities from Canada, the USA, the UK, Finland, and beyond are hosting fairs to recruit talented African students.

The Director of Global Sales and Student Recruitment at Illume, a student advisory services company, Mr Duarte Dias, believes Tanzania is a vital market for top-tier institutions.

“Tanzania produces some of the brightest students, and international universities are eager to tap into this talent,” he said. “The diversity that Tanzanian students bring is a perfect match for the strategies of global institutions.”

Mr Dias also noted that these fairs are designed to protect students from fraudulent agents. “When universities engage directly with students and parents, it minimises the risk of scams. We’re here to provide free guidance and ensure that the process is transparent and straightforward.”

For parents like Maria Mwita, whose daughter dreams of studying abroad, the recruitment fairs have been a game changer.

“Years ago, sending a child abroad for studies seemed impossible. “The process was complicated, and you couldn’t trust anyone to guide you. But now, with universities coming here, I feel more confident,” she said.

Maria attended a recent fair with her daughter. “We spoke directly with representatives from top universities. They answered all our questions, and it felt safe. It’s a huge relief for us as parents,” she added.

For many students, these fairs are not just about convenience but also inspiration.

“I always thought studying abroad was only for the wealthy,” said 19-year-old Daniel Mwakasala, a secondary school leaver. “But when I met representatives from universities offering scholarships, I realised it’s possible for anyone with good grades and determination.”

Daniel, who aspires to study computer science, found the guidance at the fair invaluable. “They explained the application process and even helped me identify scholarship opportunities. It’s like they opened a door I thought was locked,” he said.

Bridging the gap

EduKwanza has been instrumental in connecting Tanzanian students with international institutions. According to Farhaz Kassam, Head of Business Development at EduKwanza, their approach is unique.

“Unlike traditional agencies, we bring universities to meet students directly,” Kassam explained. “This gives students the freedom to choose the institution that suits them best without relying on intermediaries.”

During the recent fair, over 1,000 students from secondary schools across Tanzania engaged with universities. Kassam noted that the Tanzanian students’ interest has grown significantly in recent years.

“Tanzania’s economy is booming, and families are increasingly open to exploring global education opportunities,” he said. “These fairs ensure students can access world-class education without unnecessary hurdles.”

Over the past two years, EduKwanza has enabled more than 500 Tanzanian students to secure study opportunities abroad.

Education experts have applauded the trend, emphasising the long-term benefits for Tanzania. An education policy analyst, Dr Felician Mkama, said such initiatives align with global education trends. “International universities are looking for diversity, and African students bring unique perspectives and skills.”

Dr Mkama also stressed the importance of transparency. “By hosting fairs and engaging directly with students, these universities build trust. It eliminates the middlemen who often exploit students and parents.”

He believes that exposure to global education will have a ripple effect on Tanzania’s development. “When these students return home, they bring knowledge, skills, and networks that benefit the entire nation,” Dr Mkama added.

A bright future

For students like Mohamed, Daniel, and countless others, these fairs are opening once unimaginable doors. With universities now competing to attract African talent, Tanzanian students are in a unique position to access scholarships, quality education, and a pathway to global opportunities.

“Tanzania is becoming a hub for educational talent,” said Mr Dias. “And as more institutions recognise this, the opportunities will only grow.”

Parents, students, and experts agree that the future is bright for Tanzanian education. With international universities bringing opportunities directly to the doorstep, the dream of studying abroad is no longer out of reach.

The Minister for Education, Science, and Technology, Prof Adolf Mkenda, has been emphasising the importance of exchanging experiences by encouraging students to seek opportunities to study abroad to bring a new perspective and drive development in the country.

He has also been urging universities in the country to establish partnerships with foreign universities to facilitate the exchange of experiences among students and lecturers, ultimately enhancing the quality of teaching.

"We cannot remain an isolated island; we must align with global education trends. We need to go abroad to gain experience and return to improve things here at home," said Prof Mkenda during one of his meetings with education stakeholders.