Tanzania on bold move to boost enrollment of foreign students

For years, universities in Tanzania have admitted students from different parts of the world, but challenges arising from differences in education systems have limited the numbers.

Now, institutions such as the University of Dar es Salaam (UDSM), which currently enrolls around 20 international students annually, are positioning themselves to increase these figures.

Speaking during the ‘Consultative Training Workshop for Members of Councils, Senates, and Governing Boards of Universities and University Colleges in Tanzania yesterday, the Executive Secretary of the Tanzania Commission for Universities (TCU), Prof Charles Kihampa, highlighted the importance of the guidelines.

“Globally, education systems differ. Acknowledging this, TCU has developed guidelines outlining how students from other parts of the world, whose education systems differ from ours, can be admitted to our universities,” said Prof Kihampa.

He emphasised that the guidelines are part of Tanzania’s vision to make its universities international.

“We believe these measures will make Tanzania a more attractive destination for foreign students, especially those eager to learn Kiswahili and experience our rich culture,” he added.

With the anticipated increase in foreign enrollments, Tanzanian universities stand to benefit significantly. Beyond enhancing their global profiles, these institutions can foster exchange programmes that expose both local and international students to diverse cultures and ideas.

Chairperson of the TCU Board, Dr Leonard Akwilapo, also stressed the importance of maintaining quality even with the high demand of university slots by students.

Dr Akwilapo noted that while the influx of students is welcome in higher learning institutions, maintaining high standards is non-negotiable. “I emphasise the need for comprehensive teaching and adherence to examination processes. Quality should never be compromised, no matter the challenges,” he urged.

Tanzania’s higher education sector is already grappling with increasing student numbers. Reports indicate that over 500,000 students enroll in universities and other higher education institutions annually, putting pressure on resources, classrooms, and academic staff.

Education consultant and former university assistant lecturer, Ms Maria Ntinda acknowledged the potential of international students but cautioned against ignoring the existing challenges.

“Bringing in foreign students is a great initiative, but we must also invest in infrastructure, hire more lecturers, and ensure our management systems are robust enough to handle the growing demand,” said Ms Ntinda.

She also pointed out that international students often have unique needs, such as language support and cultural integration programmes.

“These are areas where Tanzanian universities must improve if they want to compete with institutions in South Africa, Kenya, and other regions attracting global students,” she added.

The theme of the workshop, “Enhancing Quality of University Education through Strengthening Leadership, Management, and Internal Quality Assurance Systems,” underscores the need for Tanzanian universities to prioritise quality.

“University councils, senates, and governing boards are the backbone of maintaining quality in higher education,” said Dr Akwilapo.

He called on these bodies to align their strategies with the revised Education and Training Policy and the curriculum reforms to ensure programmes meet both local and international standards.

According to Ms Ntinda, internationalisation is not just about recruitment but also about the exchange of knowledge. “Our universities should engage in research that addresses global challenges, positioning Tanzania as a hub for academic solutions,” she said.

Ms Ntinda highlighted the delicate balance universities must strike between increasing enrollment and maintaining standards.

“The growing student population is an opportunity, but it requires innovative strategies such as blended learning, digital classrooms, and capacity building for lecturers,” she noted.

The ministry of Education, Science, and Technology is already taking steps in this direction. The implementation of the 2014 Education and Training Policy and curriculum reforms aims to align higher education programmes with labour market needs.

As Tanzania opens its doors to more international students, the move signals its commitment to becoming a global education hub. However, experts agree that success hinges on strategic planning, investment in resources, and a steadfast commitment to quality.

Dr Ntinda summed it up aptly: “This is an exciting time for Tanzanian universities. If we get it right, we can transform our education system, create global citizens, and cement our place on the international academic map.”