The Tanzania Institute of Accountancy (TIA) Zanzibar Campus held its first graduation ceremony on October 28, 2026, with women accounting for 68% of the 188 graduates. Finance Minister Ambassador Khamis Mussa Omar, the guest of honour, noted that this marked progress towards gender equality in higher education. The ceremony was part of TIA's 24th graduation ceremony, with the Zanzibar Campus being a relatively new addition, having opened in 2023.
Ambassador Omar identified access, equality, and quality as the three key pillars of education. He stated that the high number of female graduates indicated a shift away from historical barriers that saw girls' participation decline as they progressed from primary and secondary school to higher education. The minister commended parents for their commitment to educating their children and urged graduates to uphold the law, embrace technological innovation, and demonstrate integrity and professionalism.
TIA Rector Professor William Pallangyo highlighted the achievement as consistent with Tanzania's Development Vision 2050, which emphasises gender equality, investment in women as drivers of national development, and the preparation of future female leaders. He noted that women had set an example through their academic performance and growing representation among graduates. The Zanzibar Campus has grown significantly since its inception, with 267 students currently enrolled.
The Zanzibar Campus aims to increase enrolment to 1,740 students once the necessary infrastructure is completed. Nationally, TIA has more than 34,612 students across its eight campuses. Professor Pallangyo stated that 123 graduates had been awarded master's degrees, while 65 received certificates at various levels. More than 70% of the master's degree graduates were employees of government ministries and public institutions in Zanzibar.
The campus has helped reduce transport and accommodation costs for students from Zanzibar who previously had to travel to mainland Tanzania to pursue their studies. This development is consistent with Tanzania's Development Vision 2050 and its commitment to ensuring that no Tanzanian is left behind because of geographical barriers. The Union Government is funding the construction of a permanent campus on a 60-hectare site in Makunduchi, Nganani Shehia.
The first phase of the project is valued at Sh15.9 billion and is 45% complete. Professor Pallangyo stated that the project is stimulating the blue economy, with 70% of casual workers being young people from the surrounding area, and construction materials being purchased from Zanzibar-based entrepreneurs. Some female graduates attributed their strong representation to changing social attitudes towards girls' education.
Ministry of Finance Advisory Board chairman Professor Jehovaness Aikaeli said TIA was committed to playing a leading role in implementing Development Vision 2050 by producing graduates capable of addressing challenges in both the public and private sectors. He identified academic excellence and a knowledge-based economy, good and inclusive governance, and sustainable growth and partnerships as the board's three key priorities.
Key points
- Women accounted for 68% of graduates at the Tanzania Institute of Accountancy's Zanzibar Campus' first graduation ceremony.
- The Zanzibar Campus aims to increase enrolment to 1,740 students once the necessary infrastructure is completed.
- The Union Government is funding the construction of a permanent campus on a 60-hectare site in Makunduchi, Nganani Shehia.
