Costech to Fund Young Innovators in Tanzania

Tanzania's National Science and Technology Commission (Costech) is initiating a significant strategy to empower young innovators by providing them with capital to develop their creative projects. This move is part of a broader plan to ensure that innovations originating within the country are transformed into economically valuable products and services. The ultimate goal is to stimulate job creation, foster technology-driven industries, and position Tanzania as a hub for innovation in East Africa.

Samson Mwera, Costech's Director of Knowledge Management, highlighted the initiative's focus on bridging a persistent gap where many local innovations stall after exhibitions without reaching mass production or market entry. "Our goal is to ensure these innovations do not end in the classroom. We want them to be products and services that solve societal challenges and contribute to economic growth. That's why we have started a strategy to empower innovators who meet the criteria by providing them with capital to develop them," Mwera explained after reviewing student innovation exhibits.

During the exhibition, students showcased various technological innovations, including a system to reduce traffic congestion at intersections using technology, a Smart Parking system guiding drivers to available spots with light indicators, and the application of 3D printing technology to create diverse products, such as a model of the World Cup trophy. Mwera expressed encouragement that students are learning computer programming from early educational levels, building a foundation for active participation in the digital economy envisioned by the National Development Vision 2050.

This direction aligns with the education policy's emphasis on practical training, creativity, and technology utilization to cultivate a skilled workforce. Baraka Yusuf Jacobo Magiri, Director of Tanzania Community, noted their institution's collaboration with the government to strengthen technology education from early stages.

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Our goal is to ensure these innovations do not end in the classroom. We want them to be products and services that solve societal challenges and contribute to economic growth. That's why we have started a strategy to empower innovators who meet the criteria by providing them with capital to develop them.