In his visit to the National Institute of Transport (NIT) in Tanzania on July 22, 2024, the Deputy Minister of Transport, Hon. David Kihenzile, commended the National Institute of Transport (NIT) for its contributions to the success of the country’s transport sector.
The minister monitored progress in the construction of NIT’s aviation buildings, funded by the World Bank and the Government of Tanzania, through the East Africa Skills for Transformation and Regional Integration Project (EASTRIP).
He emphasized the crucial role of NIT in producing competent professionals. “NIT is a catalyst for the success of the transportation sector in the country,” said Hon. Kihenzile. “Therefore, you should continue producing competent professionals and work as a team for the development of our nation.”
The Deputy Minister of Transport, Hon. David Kihenzile (Center) with the Rector of NIT, Eng. Dr. Prosper Mgaya, during the tour of the construction of the Center of Excellence in Aviation and Transportation Operations.
The Minister also urged the Institute’s administration to ensure close supervision of the ongoing construction of the aviation training buildings and student hostels.
“While we anticipate the timely completion of these buildings, the Institute must ensure close supervision of the contractors and all involved parties to guarantee the highest quality facilities,” said Hon. Kihenzile. “I hope these buildings will meet the highest standards for the benefit of the country.”
NIT Rector Eng. Dr. Prosper Mgaya expressed gratitude for the Tanzania government’s trust and unwavering support in advancing the transportation sector.
“We promise that we will not let down our government led by Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan. We will supervise and ensure that the construction is completed on time, with the highest standards and quality,” said Dr. Mgaya.
The Rector elaborated on the EASTRIP project’s funding for the construction of five buildings: two dormitories expected to accommodate 1,500 students and three buildings for classrooms and laboratories for aviation students, engineers, and staff.
Dr. Mgaya added that the buildings are scheduled for completion in October 2024, before the start of the new academic term, to address the current shortage of dormitory space at the Institute.
Dr. Mgaya also acknowledged the government’s purchase of two aircraft for aviation training, a significant step in developing the country’s aviation sector.
“Tanzania currently lacks a university providing pilot training,” he said. “Through government support, we purchased two planes for training and hope to start this program before the end of this year.”
NIT continues to play a vital role in implementing the government’s strategic transportation sector projects. The Institute’s vision is to produce highly qualified professionals to serve in large government transportation projects, including the Modern SGR railway, water, road, and pipeline transportation, and the aviation sub-sector.
By Victoria Olesaitabau, Project Marketing and Communications Officer for EASTRIP at IUCEA
