Prof. Mkenda: Home-grown Solutions for Smart Data Capturing

The Minister for Education, Science and Technology, Hon. Prof. Adolf Mkenda (MP), has called on education stakeholders in Tanzania to collaborate and learn from one another to develop effective systems for capturing accurate student data across all levels of education.

Speaking during the opening of a symposium co-hosted by the Higher Education Students’ Loans Board (HESLB) and Adapt IT Education, Prof. Mkenda emphasized the need for integrated, home-grown digital solutions that enhance data management in the education sector. The event was held today, (Thursday, 15^th May 2025), at the CRDB Bank Headquarters Auditorium in Dar es Salaam.

“We are about to introduce comprehensive statistical tracking across all education levels; from primary school to university. Our goal is to consolidate data on student enrolment and accurately monitor dropout rates,” said Prof. Mkenda.

He urged that the collaboration between HESLB and Adapt IT Education should not result in duplicated efforts, but rather focus on developing or enhancing existing systems that can serve multiple institutions efficiently. “Let’s use the expertise we already have in the country to build our own solutions. We have the brains; we should trust in our own capacity,” he stressed.

Earlier in his welcoming remarks, HESLB Executive Director Dr. Bill Kiwia expressed optimism about the partnership with Adapt IT Education, noting the company’s extensive experience in educational technology.

“Our co-host, Adapt IT Education, brings invaluable experience from across Sub-Saharan Africa in using technology to transform student loan administration. Their expertise in digital transformation, data analytics, and cross-border collaboration will undoubtedly inspire models we can tailor to our local context,” said Dr. Kiwia.

On his part, Mr. Thabo Mogaswa, Chief Technology Officer at Adapt IT Education, highlighted the importance of identifying and addressing existing gaps in student data management systems. “We aim to support local institutions in strengthening what they already have. There’s no need to reinvent the wheel if the tools are already within your reach,” he said.

The symposium, themed “Digitally Connecting Institutions: Driving Transformation in Higher Education in Tanzania,” was preceded by a series of a three-day roadshows to selected educational institutions across Dar es Salaam. The visits provided first-hand insights into how colleges and universities currently manage student data from admission to graduation.

In addition to engaging panel discussions, the event attracted approximately 150 participants and offered valuable networking opportunities. The symposium served as a platform for collaborative innovation, strategic partnerships, and a renewed commitment to advancing the future of higher education in Tanzania.