Shein promises continued loans to students

PRESIDENT Ali Mohamed Shein has said that the government would continue to provide loans to students with qualifications to join higher learning institutions because the country still needs experts in every field.

“I give my commitment that the government will continue supporting students, particularly in areas of interest,” Dr Shein said during his speech at the 12th graduation ceremony of the State University of Zanzibar (SUZA).

Dr Shein, also the SUZA University Chancellor, said the Government has been increasing funds for loans to support students but the “hunt for ghost students should continue unabated and the dishonest punished.

We also appeal to students to repay the loans so that others can benefit.” He said the government was prompted to temporary suspend issuing of loans to verify and check names of students listed to get loans.

In his speech, President Shein also emphasized to students and lecturers in the university to give weight to researches by working closely with the Tanzania Commission for Science and Technology (COSTECH), saying that it is through better researches when the institution can grow and findings can be used in national development.

“I commend you for establishing PhD class in Kiswahili; it is admirable development in promoting the language,” Dr Shein said, adding that the government will be using academicians to implement its programmes, including fishing and entrepreneurship. SUZA Vice-Chancellor Prof Idrisa Rai informed the gathering that 861 graduates for the 2015/2016 qualified for the award of certificates.

Minister of Education and Vocational Training Riziki Pembe Juma joined Dr Shein to commend the SUZA administration for the good work in developing the only state University.

Meanwhile, the Minister of Information, Tourism, Culture and Sports, Rashid Ali Juma, has promised to find solutions to challenges facing the state-owned Zanzibar Journalism and Mass Media College (ZJMMC). Speaking at the ZJMMC 8th graduation ceremony held at its new campus, Kilimani, the minister urged journalism graduates to observe ethics.

Daily News