It’s not every day that a university makes history, but this time, Dar es Salaam University College of Education (DUCE) did exactly that. The institution stunned many by presenting four remarkable graduates—all achieving an impressive 4.7 GPA. It’s a level of academic excellence that students dream about, yet only a rare few actually reach. But here’s what’s truly inspiring: their journey to success was shaped by dedication, sleepless nights, and an unshakable drive to excel.
The four trailblazers—Ramadhani Seif (Bachelor of Education in Science), Julius Gonelimali (Bachelor of Science with Education), Scharion Benedicto, and Masalu Sasila (both Bachelor of Arts with Education)—were honored during DUCE’s eighteenth graduation ceremony at the university’s campus in Dar es Salaam. Their achievements reflect not only individual perseverance but also the university’s commitment to fostering academic distinction through strong learning support and resources. It raises an interesting question: is this success solely a reflection of student effort, or does it also signal DUCE’s rising academic influence in Tanzania’s education landscape?
For DUCE, this accomplishment marks a proud milestone—a testament that the institution provides everything required for learners to thrive. As if that weren’t enough, the distinguished four were recognized with Certificates of Excellence by former President and current University of Dar es Salaam Chancellor, Dr. Jakaya Kikwete, who personally presided over the ceremony. And that’s not all. The same event celebrated 1,823 new graduates, 1,008 of whom were women—a gender ratio that hints at a powerful shift in educational balance, with women now representing 55.3 percent of the graduates.
Since its founding, DUCE has produced 23,547 graduates who now contribute significantly to Tanzania’s growth in various capacities. The day’s festivities were filled with laughter, cheers, and emotions as parents and friends proudly watched their loved ones cross the stage—a reward for years of commitment and sacrifice.
Ambassador Mwanaidi Maajar, Chairperson of the UDSM Council, lauded the government led by President Samia Suluhu Hassan for its continued commitment to strengthening higher education. She cited initiatives like the Higher Education for Economic Transformation (HEET) project, funded by the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology, that have expanded the college’s infrastructure and improved teaching conditions. She also appreciated the continued financial assistance from the Higher Education Students’ Loans Board (HESLB), which has enabled many students to complete their studies.
DUCE’s Governing Board Chairman, Prof. William Anangisye, congratulated the graduates for their endurance and determination, calling them among the few Tanzanians to have attained such high educational qualifications. He also expressed his gratitude to families and friends who offered unwavering emotional, moral, and financial support throughout the academic journey. Highlighting DUCE’s ongoing infrastructural growth, he shared that two new buildings are under construction through the HEET project to enhance learning and teaching spaces.
The ceremony also shed light on DUCE’s growing research and community engagement reputation. Principal Prof. Stephen Maluka emphasized that the institution remains committed to producing graduates equipped with the skills, ethics, and confidence needed to thrive in competitive workplaces. “Our graduates are not just job seekers,” he reminded the audience, “they are future change-makers who will add value wherever they go.” He urged them to become responsible citizens and ambassadors of DUCE, using their knowledge to advance national development.
Taking the opportunity to look ahead, Prof. Maluka invited prospective students to apply for DUCE’s advanced academic programs, including a newly launched PhD in African Languages set to start in the 2026/27 academic year. He further revealed that staff development remains a priority, with 96 members currently undergoing long-term professional training aimed at boosting institutional capacity and reducing reliance on part-time lecturers. During the 2024/25 academic year alone, 38 staff members returned from study programs both locally and abroad.
DUCE’s academic strength continues to grow, boasting 142 staff members with Doctor of Philosophy qualifications—52 women and 90 men. Among them are one full Professor, seven Associate Professors, 36 Senior Lecturers, and 98 Lecturers. The data signals both a strong academic structure and a growing gender balance in senior academia, though some might argue that parity still needs more effort. But here’s the bigger question: as DUCE continues to scale academic heights, can it set a new benchmark for excellence across Tanzania’s education system?
What do you think—are DUCE’s outstanding results a reflection of student discipline, institutional transformation, or both? Share your thoughts in the comments; this debate might be more complex than it appears.
