Summary
IRDP has continued to make substantial investments in ICT infrastructure using both internally generated resources and funding provided by the government of Tanzania through the Higher Education for Economic Transformation (HEET) project.
DODOMA: THE Institute of Rural Development Planning (IRDP) has been honoured with the Excellence in Internet Services Management Award (EISMA) by the Tanzania Education and Research Network (TERNET) in recognition of its outstanding management and development of internet services across its Dodoma and Mwanza campuses.
TERNET, Tanzania’s National Research and Education Network, is an autonomous, non-profit organisation that provides dedicated high-speed internet connectivity and digital infrastructure to higher learning and research institutions across the country.
The award was presented to IRDP’s Acting Rector, Prof. Provident Dimoso, by the institution’s Head of the Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Unit, Mr Jabir Saleh Abdi.
Receiving the award, Prof. Dimoso expressed appreciation to TERNET for recognising the efforts of higher learning institutions in improving internet services.
He said IRDP has continued to make substantial investments in ICT infrastructure using both internally generated resources and funding provided by the government of Tanzania through the Higher Education for Economic Transformation (HEET) project.
“The investment has enabled the institute to strengthen internet connectivity, expand access to ICT equipment, including computers, and create a modern teaching and learning environment that aligns with the ongoing digital transformation,” Prof. Dimoso said.
He noted that reliable internet services have significantly enhanced students’ access to academic publications, online learning resources and essential digital skills, thereby improving the overall quality of education at the institute.
Prof. Dimoso also used the occasion to encourage prospective students to enrol at IRDP, highlighting that the institute offers a range of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) programmes designed to meet the growing demands of the digital economy.
Earlier, while presenting the award, Mr Abdi said IRDP earned the recognition following a comprehensive assessment conducted by TERNET among its member institutions.
The evaluation found that the institute had demonstrated exemplary performance in the utilisation, management and maintenance of internet services, making it one of the country’s leading higher education institutions in ICT service delivery.
ABOUT IRDP
The Institute of Rural Development Planning (IRDP) is a specialized higher education institution based in Dodoma, Tanzania.
Established in 1980, it focuses on training professionals in development planning, community development, and poverty reduction, while offering research and consultancy services.
Core Focus Areas
Academic Programs: Offers over 45 undergraduate and 28 graduate degree programs (including courses in development finance, environmental planning, and population studies).
Entrepreneurship: The Mipango Entrepreneurship and Innovation (MEI) Centre trains students and locals in practical business skills and agricultural value-addition.
Community Outreach: Conducts research and field projects designed to empower rural populations, women, and youth.
Location & Facilities
Main Campus: Located at Mbwanga, along the Dodoma–Arusha Road, about 7 km from the Dodoma City Centre.
Branch:
Operates a Lake Zone Training Centre in Mwanza, Tanzania.
Student Services:
Features a fully accredited on-campus dispensary, cafeteria, and counseling services.
