DAR ES SALAAM, Nov 3 (NNN-DAILYNEWS) — SOUTH Africa’s Minister for Education, Science and Innovation, Dr Bonginkosi Mzimande has underscored the importance of strengthening space technology cooperation with Tanzania as a continuation of their historic partnership dating back to independence struggles.
Dr Mzimande made the remarks during his visit to the Dar es Salaam Institute of Technology (DIT) in Dar es Salaam recently. The visit aimed at boosting educational cooperation between the two nations.
“We are eager to collaborate in many areas, particularly in space science and technology, which aligns with the Dar es Salaam Institute of Technology’s (DIT) focus,” stated Dr Mzimande.
He said that an agreement has already been established between him and Tanzanian Minister Prof Adolf Mkenda to further explore areas of cooperation.
“We want to work together on initiatives, especially in satellite technology, with hopes that this will pave the way for us to jointly launch satellites,” he added.
He attributed this position to South Africa’s advanced capabilities in the field and expressed enthusiasm about extending support to Tanzania.
“We’re more than happy to work with Tanzania,” he said. “South Africa wants to see more African countries engaged in space science and technology.”
The South African minister also stressed the importance of educating African societies on the role of science in everyday life to gain broader public support for scientific initiatives. “We need to ensure that society understands the significance of science. Without that understanding, we cannot expect their support,” he remarked.
In his remarks, DIT Council Chair Dr Richard Masika praised the visit as a critical step toward Tanzania’s ambitious plans to launch three satellites within the next few years.
“With government support, DIT has already initiated steps to launch its first satellite in 2026, followed by two more in 2027 and 2028,” he stated, noting the visit provided a unique opportunity for DIT to leverage South Africa’s advanced expertise in space technology.
Dr Masika highlighted that DIT is committed to aligning student training with industry demands.
“DIT supports national goals by developing competent engineers through a competency-based approach rather than theory alone,” he said.
He further explained that DIT’s teaching factory approach equips students with practical skills, making them market-ready upon graduation.
For his part, DIT Director of Academics, Dr Petro Pesha shared insights into DIT’s roadmap for supporting the government’s space initiatives, which include setting up a space department in 2023, establishing a centre for space technology in 2024 and preparing for its first satellite launch under the KiboCube programme on August 1, 2026.
He disclosed that DIT has visited Russia and China to gather insights and build local capacity for the launches. Dr Mzimande commended South Africa’s support for Tanzania’s efforts, particularly in capacity building through staff and students’ exchanges. — NNN-DAILYNEWS