UNIVERSITY graduates across Tanzania have been called upon to uphold moral values, accountability and resilience as they enter job market to contribute to national development.

The advice comes from Prof. Joseph Kuzilwa, Chairperson of the Institute of Rural Development Planning (IRDP) Government Council, during the institute's 17th convocation ceremony held yesterday at its main campus at Miyuji in Dodoma.

"Tanzania and the world at large require collective efforts to address pressing issues and manage change. Rapid technological advancement and amplifying marginalized voices are essential for achieving sustainable development," he said.

He urged the graduands to embrace their roles as agents of change and work towards creating a better future.

Prof. Kuzilwa expressed gratitude to the government and various development partners for their support. He emphasized the crucial role this support plays in enabling IRDP to deliver programmes that uplift rural communities and the nation as a whole.

IRDP Rector Prof. Hozen Mayaya highlighted the institute’s significant milestones since its establishment in 1979. As it approaches its 46th anniversary in February next year, IRDP has grown from a modest beginning of 14 staff and 13 students to over 400 staff and more than 14,500 students.

The institute has made strides in academic research, gaining recognition on platforms such as Africa Journals Online (AJOL), enhancing its global visibility and academic standing.

“We are deeply committed to professional development of our staff. Currently, 76 staff members pursue advanced qualifications, including 45 PhDs, 23 master’s degrees, six bachelor’s degrees and two ordinary diploma programmes,” Prof. Mayaya said.

The institute has expanded its long-term academic offerings to 37 programmes, aiming to meet the evolving demands of Tanzania's job market. Short course programmes.

IRDP continues to improve its infrastructure, including construction of modern academic blocks and enhancement of IT facilities to enrich learning environment.

The convocation also celebrated 173 students who excelled in academics and extracurricular activities, 97 male and 76 female.

The event served as a precursor to IRDP’s 38th graduation ceremony scheduled to take place later today at the Mwalimu Nyerere Hall in Dodoma and Kitumba grounds in Mwanza.