STUDENTS enrolled in the Samia scholarship extended programme intended for university studies abroad in artificial intelligence studies are doing well in pre-training at the Nelson Mandela African Institution of Science and Technology (NM-AIST).

Prof. Daniel Mushi, an Education, Science and Technology deputy permanent secretary, said here yesterday that the pre-training initiative is designed to prepare selected high-achieving students for advanced studies in data science, artificial intelligence (AI) and interdisciplinary sciences at world-class universities abroad.

He emphasized the government's unwavering commitment to ensuring all beneficiaries secure opportunities at leading global institutions, describing the preliminary programme as a critical investment in human capital.

It is aimed at equipping Tanzanian youth with cutting-edge skills in information and communication technology (ICT) encompassing emerging scientific fields, he said, in remarks made at a progress assessment meeting at the sub-regional institution.

 It reviewed the performance of students currently undergoing an intensive preparatory training camp equipping them with foundational knowledge before departing for overseas studies.

"Our priority is to prepare young Tanzanians to become competitive in the job market locally and internationally," he stated, affirming that the effort is part of the government’s long-term vision of building a knowledge-driven economy.

Through the scholarship programme, Tanzania is actively nurturing a new generation of professionals capable of driving technological innovation and contributing solutions for national and global challenges, urging stakeholders—including academic institutions, private sector partners and development organizations—to strengthen their collaboration to guarantee the programme’s success.

Stressing that the success of this initiative depends on strong partnerships, he stated that our students are fully prepared to succeed in top international universities and return to contribute meaningfully to the nation’s development."

Prof. Maulilio Kipanyula, the NM-AIST vice chancellor, reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to providing the necessary preparatory expertise, pointing out that NM-AIST is providing specialized training in data science, AI and Interdisciplinary sciences to ensure the scholarship recipients acquire essential theoretical and practical foundations.

“Our role is to give these students a strong foundation so that once they join world-class universities, they can excel and eventually bring back expertise that will advance Tanzania’s scientific and technological agenda,” he further remarked.

The Samia Scholarship extended programme is aligned with the government’s broader ambition to significantly strengthen Tanzania’s human resources capacity in strategic areas of science and technology.

Education experts believe that producing skilled professionals in these critical fields will enhance innovation and improve national competitiveness across vital sectors, including health, agriculture, finance, and industry.

By strategically investing in young talent and providing global exposure, Tanzania is positioning itself to become a hub for technological advancement and scientific research in the region, he added.