6,750 students to benefit from new hostel project

DODOMA: CONSTRUCTION of 13 new hostels capable of accommodating 6,750 students is underway at higher learning institutions across the country as part of government efforts to address accommodation shortages and improve students’ welfare. Deputy Minister for Education, Science and Technology , Ms Wanu Hafidh Ameir, disclosed the initiative in the National Assembly yesterday while responding to a basic question from Special Seats MP, Selina Kingalame (CCM), who sought to know the government’s plans to expand hostel facilities and enhance the safety of students, particularly female students. Ms Ameir said the government is continuing with the construction and rehabilitation of infrastructure in universities and colleges to improve teaching and learning conditions. She said the hostel project is aimed at increasing accommodation capacity on campuses, reducing housing challenges faced by students and providing a safer and more conducive learning environment. “The construction of the new hostels is intended to increase accommodation capacity within campuses, reduce challenges related to housing and enable students to study in safe and conducive environments,” she said. The deputy minister further said that adequate hostel facilities play a crucial role in promoting students’ welfare, safety and academic performance. She added that female students are among those most affected when accommodation is unavailable on campus, forcing them to seek housing in areas located far from their institutions. “The government will continue allocating funds for the construction of hostels and other learning infrastructure subject to the availability of resources,” Ms Ameir said. She said the government is also encouraging private sector participation and partnerships with various stakeholders to invest in hostels and student housing near universities in order to meet the growing demand for accommodation. ALSO READ: Tanzania increases investments in educational infrastructure to improve learning environment in its schools According to her, such investments will help expand access to safe, quality and affordable accommodation as enrolment in higher learning institutions continues to increase. Responding to a supplementary question on whether public institutions such as the National Social Security Fund (NSSF), Public Service Social Security Fund (PSSSF), Workers Compensation Fund (WCF) and National Housing Corporation (NHC) could be involved in hostel construction, Ms Ameir said the government is exploring additional partnership opportunities. She said that some of the institutions have already invested in student accommodation infrastructure at major universities, including the University of Dodoma (UDOM) and the University of Dar es Salaam (UDSM). “The government is continuing consultations with key stakeholders to explore further opportunities for these institutions to participate in the construction of hostels and other student accommodation facilities,” she said. The post 6,750 students to benefit from new hostel project first appeared on Daily News . The post 6,750 students to benefit from new hostel project appeared first on Daily News .