Tanzania Commission for Science and Technology
(COSTECH)

The Director General of COSTECH, Dr. Amos Nungu, emphasized that the implementation team of the COSTECH HEET project must work efficiently and on time to avoid hindering the government's goal in executing the project. He made these remarks during the signing of the Design and Construction Management contract for the COSTECH Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI Complex) building, which is expected to be constructed in Dodoma City through the HEET project.

The contract was signed at the COSTECH offices on August 8, 2024, between COSTECH and the MEKON ARCH Consult company.

Dr. Nungu stated that through this project, COSTECH, as part of the initiative, has learned and continues to learn more while working as a team to achieve the government's objectives through the HEET Project.


On his part, the CEO of MEKON, Dr. Moses Mkonyi, commended COSTECH for the progress made and stated that his company, through the HEET project, is prepared to carry out the design and construction management effectively

COSTECH conducted a one-day training for all its employees, aimed at improving the management of internal and external complaints as part of the implementation of the project. The training took place in August 2024, in Dar es Salaam.

The goal of the training was to enhance communication and coordination in handling complaints, increase the project's efficiency, and promote good governance through the use of the Government's electronic feedback system (E-mrejesho).

Dr. Aloyce M. Andrew, Assistant Coordinator of the HEET Project, explained that the project aims to strengthen system improvements in higher Education institutions to enhance productivity and knowledge output from graduates. This aligns with the government's objective to drive economic transformation through Education, thereby creating employment opportunities and contributing to the national economy.

On her part, the training facilitator, Ms. Nichiza Malaki, urged participants to adhere to the standards and ethics of COSTECH by submitting internal complaints through the designated email, costech@malalamiko.co.tz. She also emphasized the implementation of the government's directive to use the E-mrejesho system, enabling institutions to align with advancements in science, technology, and innovation.

he National Commission for Science and Technology (COSTECH) has begun the initial steps for the construction of the Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI Complex) building in Dodoma, which will expand its capacity to serve STI stakeholders in the country.

This was stated by Dr. Aloyce Andrew, Assistant Coordinator of the COSTECH "HEET" project, during the handover of the construction site to the company 'MEKON Arch Consult,' marking the start of the preliminary design phases.

The handover took place on August 9, 2024, following the signing of the Construction Management and Design contract on August 8, 2024, in Dar es Salaam.

MEKON has pledged to quickly initiate the preliminary stages of the topographic and geotechnical survey.

COSTECH is building the Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI Complex) in Dodoma through the HEET project.

The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology (MoEST), Prof. Carolyne Nombo, has stated that the Government, through Higher Education for Economic Transformation (HEET) project, has invested a total of TZS 1.1 trillion in education infrastructure, modern teaching equipment, strengthening partnerships between universities and industrial sector, as well as issues related to science, technology, and innovation.

She made these remarks during the launch of four national frameworks on science, technology, and innovation, as well as the launch of an additional service for teacher training colleges via video call, through the HEET project. The event took place on October 4, 2024, at the COSTECH offices in Dar es Salaam.

Prof. Nombo explained that these guidelines are part of the HEET project’s outcomes, and it is believed that after the launch, they will help establish systems of operation and enhance the coordination and management of all matters related to science, technology, and innovation.

"Research and innovation are key tools in contributing to economic and social development. All developed countries worldwide have succeeded due to strong coordination and investment in science, technology, and innovation," said Prof. Nombo.

Furthermore, our Government, under President Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan, has continued to invest heavily in strengthening the development and contribution of science, technology, and innovation to foster industrial growth and improve the lives of Tanzanians. Through collaborations between higher education institutions and the industrial sector, the Government aims to ensure productive research and innovation outcomes. The four frameworks officially launched are a significant step in strengthening the systems of science, technology, and innovation management in the country, said Prof. Nombo.

"These frameworks are very important tools for policymakers, higher education institutions, industries, and the Tanzanian community as a whole. The Ministry of Education, Science, and Technology has set major goals to improve education and enhance science and technology to drive the development of our nation," Prof. Nombo added.

On his part, the Director-General of the Tanzania Commission for Science and Technology (COSTECH), Dr. Amos Nungu, stated that COSTECH is implementing the HEET project through six areas. These areas focus on building science, technology, and innovation infrastructure, nurturing and developing the capacity of researchers and innovators, fostering relationships between the private sector and research and development institutions, improving modern ICT infrastructure, as well as promoting sustainable capacity and managing research and innovation in the country.

"We are working with various stakeholders such as universities, research development sectors, and the private sector in preparing these guidelines. They are also crucial tools for researchers, innovators, and public institutions, aiming to enhance the quality of research, innovation, and sustainable development," said Dr. Nungu. -

Dr. Nungu concluded by saying that these guidelines aim to strengthen coordination within Tanzania’s research, innovation, and technology sectors. Each guideline is designed to provide clear direction for the respective sectors within the innovation and research ecosystem, ensuring that the nation achieves its social and economic goals.

In a move towards massive technological advancement, the Tanzania Commission for Science and Technology under HEET project is currently working on developing one useful National Information System for Science, Technology and Innovation (NISSTI), it has been learnt.

This was informed during the internal stakeholders forum to collect variables for the system, famously known as systems required specifications that would be used to for the NISSTI formulation and functioning, which was held form 23rd to 24th September 2024.

Speaking when officiating this forum, the Director General of COSTECH, Dr. Amos Nungu highlighted the importance of having a centralized National Information System for Science, Technology, and Innovation (NISSTI) that would facilitate effective coordination and working.

“This system will help streamline research and innovation activities in the country as well as support accordingly collaboration, and improve access to relevant data”, said Dr Nungu.

Meanwhile, the Acting Director of Knowledge Management at COSTECH, Mr. Daudi Mboma said the NISSTI will support research and innovation processes by increasing their number, facilitate the collection and sharing of data across institutions, and enhance communication and collaboration among researchers and innovators in Tanzania.

"Through HEET, this system is expected to be one of the stock centres of science technology and innovation information. It will help in research and development, higher learning institutions (HLIs), innovation and technology transfer, research fund and grant management, as well as knowledge storage and dissemination and publication, and science technology and innovation dashboard”, said Mr. Mboma.

Dr. Bunini Wilbert Manyilizu, the facilitator of this internal stakeholder’s forum on NISST described the relevant variables for NISSTI and the data sharing process and its importance as well as how the system could ensure secure and efficient access to research data.

He also explained about collaboration between research institutions, universities, and private innovators, and potential challenges such as data security and the immense opportunities NISSTI presents for national development.

“NISSTI represents a transformative step forward for Tanzania's research and innovation landscape by centralizing data, fostering collaboration, and supporting national development goals", said Dr. Manyilizu.

He added that through HEET project “this system will play a fundamental role in advancing science, technology, and innovation in our country. However, its success relies not only on the technology itself but also on the active participation and commitment of every researcher, innovator, and institution represented here today”.

He encouraged members of staff to embrace NISSTI and explore the vast potential it offers to streamline our efforts, share knowledge, and create impactful innovations. “Together, we can ensure that NISSTI becomes a cornerstone of our scientific and technological advancement. This is a thriving platform for the future of Tanzania's research and innovation community”

Dar es Salaam, March 1, 2025 – The Tanzania Commission for Science and Technology (COSTECH) has signed a contract with ARICOM Contractors Ltd to rehabilitate its building in Dar es Salaam. This initiative marks a significant step toward modernizing the facility to better support research, innovation, and technological development in the country. The upgraded building will serve as a hub for innovators and startups, fostering a dynamic environment for innovation, research and technological advancements. According to COSTECH Director General Dr. Amos Nungu said, the project aligns with the goals of the Higher Education for Economic Transformation (HEET) initiative which aims to strengthen Tanzania’s innovation ecosystem through strengthening education management system in Higher Learning Institutions. Speaking at the contract signing ceremony COSTECH Assistant HEET Project Coordinator, Dr. Aloyce Andrew highlighted the project’s role in creating opportunities for young innovators and researchers. As the COSTECH HEET Project Coordinator Mr. Imanuel Mgonja emphasized that the modernization of the COSTECH facility will enhance collaboration between researchers, startups and industry stakeholders, ultimately driving national development through science and technology. The project will be implemented in compliance with World Bank (WB) and national regulations to ensure high standards and sustainability. ARICOM Contractors Ltd has committed to executing the rehabilitation work efficiently to ensure timely completion

Dar es Salaam, 3rd March 2025 – InterCapital Consulting Ltd has presented its Inception Report for the COSTECH Institutional Review, a crucial step in assessing and strengthening the role of the Tanzania Commission for Science and Technology (COSTECH) in fostering applied research and innovation in the country. During the presentation, the HEET National Project Coordinator, Dr. Kenny Hosea, underscored the need for the consultancy to consider reviewing a new curriculum framework aimed at equipping candidates with technical skills essential for industrial and economic growth. He emphasized that the revised curriculum which focus on practical training, ensuring that graduates possess hands-on expertise to meet the demands of Tanzania’s evolving job market will results into potential innovations for commercialization. Additionally, the Coordinator highlighted COSTECH’s central role as the sole enabler of applied research and innovation within Higher Learning Institutions (HLIs) implementing the HEET project. He stressed that InterCapital Consulting Ltd must invest significantly in innovation development and conduct an in-depth assessment of the Centre for Development Technology and Transfer (CDTT), which was designed to plays a key role in coordinating and commercializing research-driven innovations.

Dar es Salaam, Tanzania – The Tanzania Commission for Science and Technology (COSTECH), through the Higher Education for Economic Transformation (HEET) Project, is making remarkable progress in strengthening research, innovation, and digital infrastructure across the country.

During a Project Coordination (PCs) meeting at the University of Dar es Salaam (UDSM), a Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) specialist highlighted the project’s role in enhancing technology transfer, commercialization, and connectivity within higher learning institutions (HLIs) and research & development (R&D) centers.

Dr. Rigobert Ngeleja, speaking at the meeting, emphasized that the project has greatly increased the visibility of Tanzanian research and innovation whereby the 8th and 9th Science, Technology, and Innovation Conference and Exhibitions (STICE) attracted over 4,000 participants, with 200 research papers presented, 32 manuscripts published, and 45 expert dialogue sessions facilitated. This growing engagement has positioned Tanzania as a regional hub for scientific research and innovation.

Also to bridge the gap between research and industry, COSTECH has facilitated credit windows to support startups and spin-off companies. The SAMIA Innovation Commercialization Fund within NFAST was launched to help innovators transform research ideas into market-ready products, contributing to economic diversification and job creation.

Dr. Ngeleja said again, the project has enhanced innovation support systems by establishing fully functional Innovation Intermediaries in nine HLIs, including Technology Transfer Offices (TTOs) and Innovation Hubs. Additionally, 35 TTO supervisors have received specialized training in innovation management, ensuring long-term sustainability and effective industry-academia collaboration.

Either COSTECH has invested heavily in digital transformation, improving internet connectivity and digital services in HLIs, R&D centers, and teacher training colleges where the key achievements including Enhanced internet access in 17 HLIs and 15 Teacher Colleges; Higher Education Research Institution Network (HERIN) uptime improved to 99%, enabling seamless research collaboration and e-learning and Free video conferencing and open data platforms to foster communication and knowledge-sharing among institutions.

On the side of safeguarding research and innovation, COSTECH has trained 27 participants from six HLIs in intellectual property (IP) protection, leading to the drafting and successful registration of 10 patents at BRELA. This initiative is creating a stronger culture of IP protection and commercialization among Tanzanian innovators.

COSTECH has also streamlined research management by Developing three national frameworks and guidelines to improve research governance, Registering 1,200 researchers and 500 innovators into a national STI database and Launching a documentary film project to showcase the COSTECH-HEET initiative’s impact on Tanzania’s research and innovation landscape.

The COSTECH-HEET project is playing a transformational role in Tanzania’s research and innovation sector. By improving research visibility, facilitating commercialization, enhancing digital connectivity, and strengthening intellectual property rights, the initiative is laying the foundation for a sustainable, technology-driven economy.

As Tanzania progresses towards a knowledge-based economy, the long-term impact of COSTECH’s efforts will be felt across academia, industry, and policy-making—ensuring that science, technology, and innovation remain at the heart of national development.