ZANZIBAR-Her Excellency Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan, President of the United Republic of Tanzania, on January 8th,2026 inaugurated new academic, administration and student hostel facilities of the University of Dar es Salaam Institute of Marine Sciences (IMS) Zanzibar.
The inauguration marks a significant public investment aimed at strengthening national capacity in higher education, marine science and research, and the blue economy, key sectors for strategic pillars for sustainable economic growth, employment creation and improved livelihoods for Zanzibar and Tanzania at large.
The initiative forms part of broader government efforts to strengthen public universities by aligning skills development with national economic priorities in strategic growth sectors that enhance productivity, competitiveness and long-term socio-economic development.
Implemented under the Higher Education for Economic Transformation (HEET) Project, the upgraded infrastructure enhances the institute's ability to deliver advanced academic training and undertake high-level research with key focus on marine resource management, sustainable fisheries, coastal and marine conservation, ocean-based tourism and climate change adaptation.
As a result of the rehabilitation, the Institute's student intake capacity has expanded from 172 to 472 students, significantly improving access to specialized marine science education and strengthening the overall teaching and learning environment.
President Dr. Samia emphasized that the ocean is a strategic national asset whose sustainable utilization must be guided by science and professional research,highlighting the critical role of IMS in generating evidence-based knowledge to inform policy formulation, investment decisions and responsible use of marine resources.
She further stressed the importance of ensuring that research and innovation translate into tangible socio-economic benefits, including job creation, skills development, improved income security for coastal and island communities dependent on marine resources.
The Institute will also implement student exchange programmes, strengthen research in the blue economy, and plans to introduce six new academic programmes in the future, initiatives expected to enhance institutional quality, relevance and national development impact.
The President directed the Institute to develop and offer short-term professional courses aimed at equipping surrounding communities with practical skills, expanding employment opportunities and enabling citizens to directly benefit from the blue economy.
The opening of the new facilities reinforces Tanzania's growing position as a hub for marine science within the Indian Ocean region. It also reaffirms the Institute of Marine Sciences as the country's sole specialized marine research institution and a recognized Centre of Excellence at national and regional level.