‘Embrace Nyerere’s self-reliance philosophy’
MBEYA: STAKEHOLDERS in Mbeya have called for the implementation of a new education policy that embodies the self-reliance philosophy of Father of the Nation, Mwalimu Julius Nyerere.
They argued that graduates have a significant role to play in addressing unemployment.
The stakeholders expressed their views over the weekend during the symposium titled “Mwalimu Nyerere Education Philosophy and Tanzania’s Education Policy,” held to commemorate the 25th anniversary of his passing. The event, organised by the Catholic University of Mbeya (CuoM), aimed to discuss Nyerere’s contributions to the education sector.
A lecturer at CuoM, Dr Blaston Kanuksiya, presented insights on the 2014 Education and Training Policy, now reviewed in its 2023 edition. He noted that the current policy tends to focus on foreign issues rather than local concerns. “However, it emphasises the need to reinstate self-reliant education, which should empower graduates to become self-sufficient in their social and economic environments,” he stated.
“Our education must prioritise serving humanity. Therefore, capacity building for educators is crucial to ensure they effectively teach students about self-reliance,” he added.
He stressed that higher learning institutions are in a prime position to influence education policy to foster social and economic development within communities.
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Dr Kanuksiya further urged academics to critically evaluate upcoming education policies, ensuring they align with Tanzania’s realities and conduct research to inform necessary recommendations.
On behalf of her peers, CuoM law student Ms Roida Nyaki emphasised that the education policy must reflect the realities of Tanzania to promote self-reliance among graduates.
She highlighted the importance of this philosophy, particularly in rural production activities, especially in agriculture. “If well implemented, graduates will no longer need to migrate to urban areas in search of employment,” she stressed.
Symposium Coordinator Dr Joviter Katabaro noted that the event aimed to honour Mwalimu Nyerere’s legacy, which profoundly impacted Tanzanian lives.
“Many of you students were not born during his presidency, so it’s important to learn about his contributions and how you can transform your lives through the knowledge he left behind,” he advised.
CuoM Deputy Chancellor Professor Romuald Haule stated that the best way for youth to honour the late Mwalimu Nyerere is by being dedicated to learning and sharing the knowledge they acquire with others.
Gracing the event, Rukwa Regional Commissioner and the son of the late Mwalimu, Mr Makongoro Nyerere, emphasised the importance of humanity in honouring his father’s legacy.
“He sacrificed his life for others selflessly,” he said.
