By Adonis Byemelwa
Morogoro–The 44th Graduation Ceremony of the Sokoine University of Agriculture (SUA) took place yesterday, October 17, 2024, at the Edward Moringe Campus in Morogoro, marking a remarkable milestone for one of Tanzania’s most prestigious institutions. With over 3,000 students receiving degrees and certificates, the event, led by SUA’s Chancellor (Rtd.) Justice Joseph Sinde Warioba was a testament to the university’s role in shaping the nation’s future workforce.
The ceremony also highlighted a historic achievement for gender representation, with 46% of this year’s graduates being women. The milestone underscores the growing impact of higher education in empowering women across Tanzania, a trend that drew applause from attendees.
Judge (Rtd.) Othman Chande, the Chairperson of SUA’s University Council, continued efforts to produce industry-ready graduates and foster national development. “This university remains committed to excellence in education and practical training, ensuring its students contribute meaningfully to the country’s growth,” he said.
Graduates, including those in critical fields like agriculture, engineering, and molecular biology, were urged to carry the torch of innovation and drive progress in their respective fields. The university, which has revamped more than 74 programs to keep pace with global trends, continues to lead the charge in science, technology, and research-driven education.
During the ceremony, the chair of SUA’s Academic Committee, Prof. Pili Sibuga, touched on the global tradition of academic regalia, tracing its origins back to 1912 in Europe. She explained that undergraduate students wear four-cornered caps with a single tassel on the right side, while postgraduate students, including PhD candidates, wear circular caps, symbolizing the completion of the academic journey. The gowns, adorned with colorful stoles, represent the student’s specific field of study.
The university’s commitment to gender inclusivity was also evident, as 46% of this year’s 3061 graduates were women. Judge (Rtd.) Othman Chande hailed this development as a positive indicator of progress. “This is a major stride in uplifting women in higher education,” Judge Chande noted, drawing applause from attendees. This marked a significant shift from previous years when women’s participation in tertiary education was much lower, signaling a growing movement towards gender equality in academia.
SUA’s Vice Chancellor, Prof. Raphael Chibunda, highlighted the university’s efforts to address key challenges, particularly water scarcity, through strategic projects such as the acquisition of a well drilling rig. The rig, secured under the Higher Education for Economic Transformation (HEET) project, will not only help mitigate water shortages but will also serve as a training tool for students.
“This rig will improve water availability on campus, particularly for training farms, and will enhance practical instruction for students in well drilling and irrigation practices,” Prof. Chibunda explained, expressing gratitude for the government’s continued support under President Samia Suluhu Hassan.
Prof. Chibunda also outlined the university’s efforts to regularly update its curriculum in response to scientific and technological advancements. Collaborating closely with the Ministry of Education, SUA has revised over 999 programs, with 81 receiving official approval.
He noted the recent accreditation of SUA’s Molecular Biology Department by an expert panel from Germany, which now positions the department as internationally recognized across Europe. These strides, he added, are a testament to the government’s push to improve the quality of higher education in Tanzania.
As graduates reflected on their academic journeys, many acknowledged the challenges they had faced. Frank Sambo, a graduate in Animal Science, expressed his relief at completing his degree. “It wasn’t an easy journey, but I’m thankful for the encouragement from my lecturers and the support of my peers,” Sambo remarked. However, he shared concerns about the current job market in Tanzania, which remains a source of anxiety for many graduates.
On the other hand, Gharib Abdulla Ibrahim, who earned his master’s degree in Molecular Biology, offered a more optimistic perspective. Already employed by the government, Ibrahim noted that his further education would likely lead to career advancement. “I came back to enhance my knowledge, and I’m just waiting for the formal recognition that will allow me to move up the ladder,” he said confidently.
The ceremony also paid tribute to the late Prof. Damian Gabagambi, a long-serving lecturer at SUA. His son, Jerry Gabagambi, graduated with a degree in Agricultural Economics and Agribusiness, the very field his father had taught for years before being appointed Director General of the National Development Corporation by the late President John Magufuli.
Jerry, reflecting on his father’s legacy, noted that his academic success was rooted in his father’s values of hard work and humility. “I always aspired to follow in my father’s footsteps. His advice to be humble and inquisitive has shaped my academic journey,” Jerry remarked, adding that his goal is to either continue in academia or pursue opportunities outside the university.
With over 74 academic programs, SUA continues to play a vital role in Tanzania’s higher education landscape. This year alone, the university awarded 25 doctoral degrees, 65 master’s degrees, and thousands of undergraduate qualifications. The institution remains focused on practical, hands-on training to ensure that its graduates are well-equipped to meet the demands of the job market.
SUA’s recent developments align with the country’s national development agenda, particularly in advancing science, technology, and innovation. Looking ahead, the university aims to maintain its focus on effective teaching methods while strengthening its financial management practices. Although specific details on SUA’s revenue were not disclosed, sources indicate that the university’s financial systems have been improving.
The future looks promising for SUA’s graduates, many of whom are expected to significantly contribute to Tanzania’s growth in sectors such as agriculture, engineering, and beyond. With a strong focus on practical training and research-driven education, Sokoine University of Agriculture is well-positioned to remain a leader in the country’s academic and professional landscape.
Among the distinguished guests present at the ceremony was Mozambique’s Ambassador to Tanzania, His Excellency Ricardo Mtumbuida, who enjoyed a spirited freedom song performed by the brass band. Other notable figures in attendance included Morogoro District Commissioner Mussa Kilakala, as well as former vice-chancellors and representatives from neighboring universities.
In a noteworthy regional connection, 75% of this year’s PhD graduates hailed from countries like Rwanda, Uganda, and Ethiopia, underscoring SUA’s growing influence across East Africa and beyond. The presence of high-ranking dignitaries reflected the university’s importance as a hub of academic excellence and its contributions to fostering regional collaboration and development.
