DEPUTY minister for Finance, Hamad Hassan Chande has highlighted the essential role of the State University of Zanzibar (SUZA) in shaping the university’s initiatives in research findings aimed at enhancing the institution’s broader socio-economic development.

He said during the second  academic  symposium  held at the university’s tourism hall at Maruhubi rerecntly. 

“This gathering is an opportunity  to contribute your invaluable insights, helping   SUZA’s  plans to boost research.

He urged SUZA  to intensify its research efforts to directly benefit the Isles and the broader Tanzanian community.

  Chande emphasised the critical role of research in driving the social and economic development of Zanzibar and the nation as a whole.

“Higher education institutions like SUZA play a key role in conducting in-depth research that contributes to the growth of our society,” Chande said. 

He added: “However, research requires significant time and resources, and unfortunately, many studies end up unused or forgotten.”

He urged the university to ensure that its research is effectively utilised to address real-world challenges, highlighting the importance of moving beyond academic studies and translating knowledge into practical solutions.

Chande also emphasised that SUZA produces a generation of well-educated professionals across various fields. 

He urged graduates to focus on contributing to national development, setting aside personal ambitions for the benefit of Zanzibar and Tanzania.

 “We are proud of the professionals emerging from this university, and now it is time for them to apply their skills for the greater good of our nation,” said Chande. “They must be patriots, working for the country’s progress, not just their own interests.”

Chande encouraged graduates to embrace all available opportunities for employment, stressing that they should not be selective but instead focus on contributing to Zanzibar's ongoing development across all sectors.

For SUZA to succeed in nurturing future leaders, the deputy minister underlined the importance of accountability among university staff. 

He called for a collaborative and strike-free environment to ensure higher education professionals can effectively contribute to societal well-being and sustainable national growth.

The academic symposium’s chairperson, Minister for Community Development, Gender, Elderly, Women, and Children-Zanzibar Riziki Pembe Juma, added that the event provides significant benefits for students, shaping them into future leaders of the nation.

SUZA Vice Chancellor Prof. Makame Haji highlighted the university’s progress since its establishment, noting that it has already produced highly qualified professionals ready to lead in various sectors.