The University of Dar es Salaam (UDSM), in collaboration with the Republic of Korea’s Yulho Company Limited, is set to build a new center dedicated to testing various minerals found across Tanzania.
The project, which will cost over 27bn/-, will fund the Mineral Exploration Academy and Mineral Analysis Laboratory.
During the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in Dar es Salaam on Tuesday, UDSM Vice-Chancellor, Professor William Anangisye, highlighted the center’s importance. He stated that the facility will significantly advance the country’s resource development and enhance the education and training of experts in geological resource development and related fields.
“This center will expedite the availability of mineral samples and streamline the testing process,” said Prof Anangisye. “It will also incentivize more research within Tanzania.”
Prof Anangisye emphasized that the new center will improve the university’s teaching, research, and public service efforts by introducing cutting-edge geoscience equipment and technology.
“It will transform the research and learning experience for both students and researchers,” he added.
The new facility will be the largest laboratory in the country capable of testing a comprehensive range of mineral samples, surpassing the current labs that can only test a limited number of samples.
Yulho Company Limited President, Mr Jae Lee expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership, noting that it aims to create a strong framework for collaboration between industry and academia.
“This partnership will enhance specialized workforce development, practical education, and the exchange of technological advancements in Tanzania,” said Mr Lee.
With support from Yulho, UDSM will become a central hub for mineral testing facilities, further supporting the development of Tanzania’s mineral sector.
Mr Lee also mentioned that Yulho will establish modern mineral processing facilities in Tanzania, advancing technological solutions and fostering industry growth.
Dr Salama Abubakary, Acting Admin of UDSM’s College of Minerals and Geosciences, noted that the center is expected to create over 125 jobs, with 25 positions at UDSM and more than 100 new jobs outside the university.
Construction is anticipated to begin within this financial year and be completed within two years. Additionally, Yulho Company Limited will offer scholarships to UDSM staff and students, supporting academic and professional development.
Dr Abubakary also mentioned that the centre will be equipped to test approximately 500 types of minerals available in Tanzania, eliminating the need to send samples abroad for testing, as is currently done with samples sent to South Africa, Canada and Australia.
