(Unguja) – The Budget Committee of Zanzibar’s House of Representatives has rejected a report on the implementation of the Higher Education for Economic Transformation (HEET) project by the State University of Zanzibar (SUZA). The committee directed the preparation of a revised report, citing incomplete and unclear explanations.
Lawmakers expressed doubts about whether SUZA can complete the project within the remaining 20 months, given the significant delays already encountered. The project, funded by a $425 million low-interest loan from the World Bank, aims to run from May 2021 to June 2026. SUZA was allocated $20 million (approximately TSh 45.9 billion) to address four main areas: infrastructure development, curriculum enhancement, the adoption of digital learning technologies, and capacity building for academic and administrative staff.
During a presentation to the committee, SUZA’s Project Coordinator, Dr. Hashim Hamza Chande, admitted that the project was already a year behind schedule. Notably, construction of critical facilities, which account for 70% of the total project budget, had just started, with contracts signed on November 4, 2024.
Dr. Chande attributed the delays to stringent World Bank requirements for contractor approvals, insufficient resources, procurement challenges, and fluctuations in the exchange rate of the US dollar.
Key Areas of Concern Raised by Lawmakers
| Concern | Details |
|---|---|
| Delays in Construction | Contracts for science laboratories and an agricultural school were signed late in 2024. |
| Budget Allocation Errors | Funds were reportedly spent on unapproved project components. |
| Procurement Issues | Slow procurement processes hindered access to goods and services. |
| Reporting Gaps | Financial timelines, contractor deadlines, and procurement breakdowns were missing. |
| Computer Purchases | The cost of computers seemed disproportionately high, lacking detailed justification. |
Dr. Chande reported that construction contracts worth $14.574 million (TSh 37.52 billion) were signed with Mohammed Builders, a firm based in Dar es Salaam, with a completion deadline of 18 months. Meanwhile, 21.94% of the construction budget had already been spent as of October 2024.
In the area of digital learning, 180 computers were purchased for $221,000 (TSh 568.9 million), achieving 100% budget utilization. However, committee members questioned the high average cost per computer, demanding clarification on specifications and reasons for the expense.
On curriculum development, eight new curricula have been completed, while another eight are undergoing revisions. This component utilized 68% of its $430,000 (TSh 1.107 billion) budget.
Capacity-building efforts saw 72 academics trained, including 33 for PhDs and 39 for master’s degrees. Additionally, 127 staff underwent short-term training programs. The area used 43.3% of its allocated $2.39 million (TSh 6.152 billion).
Lawmakers Criticize Reporting Gaps
Committee member Suleiman Masoud Makame praised progress but criticized the slow pace and lack of strategic explanations. Prof. Omar Fakih Hamad noted that with only 20 months remaining, substantial work is yet to be done, especially in construction, raising doubts about the project’s timely completion.
Another member, Prof. Omar, highlighted inconsistencies in financial reporting and urged better clarity in future reports. He pointed out that the lack of detailed financial timelines hindered accountability and questioned why procurement costs appeared inflated.
Budget Committee Chairperson, Mwanaasha Khamis Juma, underscored the need for clearer reports, emphasizing that the committee must understand how funds are utilized to fulfill its oversight responsibilities.
Government Promises Revised Report
Minister for Education and Vocational Training, Lela Mohamed Mussa, admitted to the report’s shortcomings and assured lawmakers of a revised version. She requested additional time to address the committee’s concerns comprehensively.
“We acknowledge the gaps in the report. We will rework it and present a revised version to meet the required standards,” she said.
The committee directed SUZA to provide a detailed, transparent, and actionable report that addresses all raised issues to ensure accountability and the successful implementation of the HEET project.