THE University of Dar es Salaam (UDSM) has launched a project to construct a dedicated building aimed at addressing gender issues and providing services for individuals with disabilities.

During a site inspection of the project in Dar es Salaam yesterday, Dr Lulu Mahai, UDSM Institute of Gender Studies Director explained that the new facility will support students, staff and guests with various disabilities, offering both social and academic assistance to ensure everyone receives the necessary services.

Dr Mahai emphasised that the building will help create a safe environment free from gender-based violence, aligning with the university’s goals of teaching, research and community engagement.

“It will also be equipped with modern assistive devices to ensure that individuals with disabilities can access services they require,” she said.

She added: “The University is committed to making the space a safe haven, free from gender-based violence and any form of abuse. This centre will feature a gender desk to address challenges related to gender issues and ensure rights and gender equality for all students and staff.”

Dr Mahai noted that construction of the centre is part of UDSM's long-term strategy, outlined in its policy from 2021 to 2061, focusing on improving gender issues and ensuring inclusion of all groups in higher education.

She mentioned that the centre is expected to serve over 45,000 students and 3,000 staff members.

Erick Nyanda, a student with disability at UDSM, expressed optimism about the project, stating that the centre will serve as a vital link between students with disabilities and their non-disabled peers.

He highlighted that the centre will enable all students to share ideas, participate in sports and engage in various physical activities, fostering unity and collaboration.

“We will receive direct support for our specific needs, including psychological counselling and access to modern assistive learning technology,” Nyanda said.

Mashukura Kabwogi, a sign language expert at UDSM, remarked that the centre will facilitate access to appropriate services for students with disabilities, allowing them to learn without barriers.

“UDSM is the first university in Tanzania to build a facility dedicated to addressing gender issues and serving people with disabilities,” he noted.

Dr Liberato Haule, Deputy Coordinator of Higher Education for Economic Transformation (HEET) project at UDSM, announced that the university has secured $47.5 million (109bn/-) to enhance education infrastructure.

He explained that the funds will be allocated for construction of facilities across campuses in Kagera, Lindi and Mtwara regions, including classrooms, dormitories and laboratories.

Dr. Haule highlighted that 98 curricula are in the final stages of accreditation to meet labour market demands.

Additionally, 38 teachers have received training in various industrial technologies, with 31 specialists from different sectors participating in training UDSM students.

World Bank Team Leader, Prof. Roberta Malee, commended UDSM for establishing the first centre of its kind among universities in Tanzania.

“We are very pleased to witness this progress and the commitment you are making to ensure quality education for all your students. This is a revolutionary step for Africa, not just for Tanzania; we are delighted to see you setting a benchmark for others worldwide,” Prof. Malee said.