Zanzibar, Tanzania – The State University of Zanzibar (SUZA), through its Building
Stronger Universities (BSU4) Project, specifically Work Package 4 (WP4), recently
concluded a highly successful four-day governance workshop. Held in collaboration with
TCDC Arusha from July 1st to 4th, 2025, the intensive training aimed to equip BSU4
members with a robust understanding and practical application of governance principles
throughout the project’s execution.
The workshop’s dynamic methodology featured interactive sessions, including practical case scenarios and ‘clinics,’ which significantly fostered active participation and deep comprehension of governance concepts among attendees. Dr. Ramsey Lyimo from TCDC Arusha expertly facilitated the training, ensuring participants remained engaged and thoroughly grasped the sessions.
Participants included SUZA BSU4 members, Deans, and Heads of Departments whose roles are integral to BSU4 activities. The workshop achieved its objective of strengthening governance and day-to-day project management of BSU4.
Key areas of focus during the workshop included:
- Practical Governance Principles: Principles of governance were practically elaborated upon, with participants working in groups through case studies that significantly enhanced their understanding.
- Clarified Roles and Responsibilities: The roles and responsibilities for each BSU4 project member, including the Coordinator, Assistant Coordinator, Work Package (WP) Leaders, and resource persons, were clearly identified and discussed. The Terms of Reference (ToR) for WP Leaders will be updated and disseminated to each resource person.
- BSU4 Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) Framework: The M&E framework specifically for the BSU4 project was elaborated upon, with participants beginning the development of the project’s own M&E framework during the session.
- Enhanced Understanding of BSU4 Organizational Structure: The BSU4 organizational structure was thoroughly discussed, leading to a clearer understanding among members. Each component was elaborated upon, and valuable suggestions for improvement were provided.
The workshop concluded with several key recommendations aimed at embedding governance practices further within the BSU4 project. These include the consistent adherence to established governance principles by all members, strict execution of project activities based on defined roles, and diligent follow-up on the developed M&E framework to ensure timely completion and quality. Furthermore, the need for an advanced governance training for all SUZA BSU4 members was highlighted, along with prioritizing dedicated sessions on essential governance components like emotional intelligence and project tracking.
The BSU4 project is committed to integrating these learnings to ensure robust and effective governance across all its initiatives, reinforcing its mission to build stronger universities.