THE Minister of State, President’s Office, Planning and Investment Prof Kitila Mkumbo will next Monday officiate the 1oth annual research and innovation week (RIW) organized by the University of Dar es Salaam (UDSM).

Prof Nelson Boniface, Deputy Vice Chancellor for Research told journalists yesterday in Dar es Salaam that the event to take place at the Library grounds of the Mwalimu Julius Nyerere Mlimani Campus is themed: ‘Harnessing Digital Technology to Accelerate Research, Innovation, and Communication.’

Prof Boniface asserted that the event underscores UDSM’s strategic commitment to driving transformation through science, technology, and innovation in alignment with Vision 2050 and the Sustainable Development Goals.
“This event will feature a diverse array of activities, including a high-level symposium on collaborative research and innovation, and dynamic exhibitions showcasing impactful research harnessing digital technology, cutting-edge innovations, and strategic academic-industry partnership,” said Prof Boniface.

According to him, UDSM remains unwavering in its mission to utilize research as a driving force for socio-economic development by festering practical solutions to address national challenges. 
“This year’s RIW will place particular emphasis on UDSM’s dedication to harnessing digital advancements to enhance research efficiency, cultivate innovation ecosystems, and promote the commercialization of research outputs,” said Prof Boniface.

He said that the dedicated strategic partnership dialogue will bring together stakeholders from academia, industry, and government to strengthen collaboration and explore opportunities for the commercialization of research outcomes.

Prof Boniface clarified that the university will utilize this pertinent event to acknowledge and celebrate exceptional contributions from its academic and student communities. A total of 104 projects, which emerged as winners at the unit level, will be exhibited and compete. During the award ceremony to be held next Wednesday, accolades will be conferred in eleven various categories.

The university has invited stakeholders, policymakers, industry leaders, development partners, academic institutions, and the general public to partake in this esteemed event“This event provides a distinctive platform to strengthen national efforts toward evidence-based policymaking, technology-driven development, and inclusive prosperity.