Kusini Kwetu

The Office Management Secretary of the Open University of Tanzania’s Dodoma Regional Centre, Gracehilda Urassa, provides clarification on admission matters to newly admitted and continuing students. To her right is the Centre Director, Dr. Mohamed Msoroka. (By Vincent Mpepo).

By Ummy Kondo, Dodoma

New and continuing students of the Open University of Tanzania (OUT) have been urged to take their studies seriously and uphold discipline in order to learn effectively and complete their programs on time.

The call was made by the university’s Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Alex Makulilo, during his welcome address to new and continuing students for the 2025/2026 academic year.

He emphasized students must remain attentive to their studies at all times and follow ongoing teaching programs, especially online lectures conducted via the Zoom application.

“I would like to remind you that studying at the Open University of Tanzania requires self-discipline and commitment,” Prof. Makulilo said.

He added that the university will continue providing teaching timetables regularly so that students can follow along and avoid falling behind in their coursework.

For his part, the Director of the Dodoma Regional Centre of the Open University of Tanzania, Dr. Mohamed Msoroka, said that academic success is possible for everyone, but especially for those who are dedicated and use their time wisely.

“Be fully engaged in online and face-to-face sessions, and do not hesitate to seek help whenever you need it. Our doors are always open,” Dr. Msoroka said.

He noted that since many admitted students are adults with families, jobs, and other responsibilities, the Open University was established to offer them flexibility, freedom, and the opportunity to pursue higher education without disrupting their daily obligations.

“Success in open and distance learning requires self-discipline, commitment, and strong time-management skills,” added Dr. Msoroka.

A third-year student at the Dodoma Regional Centre, Sabina Mpigauzi, who is pursuing a bachelor degree in education, said she decided to attend the orientation sessions to gain additional information about her studies, particularly in areas she was not familiar with, to help her progress smoothly.

She also encouraged public servants and private-sector employees to advance their professional qualifications through the Open University of Tanzania, noting that the system allows them to study without interfering with other responsibilities such as employment, childcare, and family care.

A section of newly admitted students and continuing certificate, diploma, and undergraduate learners at the Open University of Tanzania’s Regional Centre follow an orientation session on Saturday. (Photo by Vincent Mpepo).

The Open University of Tanzania is a public institution that offers education through open and distance learning in accordance with its establishing legislation, and provides this service both within and outside the country.