MNUAT HISTORY

Mwalimu Nyerere University of Agriculture and Technology (MNUAT) is a public university in Tanzania established by the Government of the United Republic of Tanzania to honor the legacy of the late Mwalimu Julius Kambarage Nyerere, the country’s founding father and first President. True to Mwalimu Nyerere’s vision of education as a foundation for empowerment, self-reliance, and rural transformation, MNUAT is strategically located in Butiama District, Mara Region, his birthplace spanning 573.5 acres approximately 38 kilometers from Musoma Town.

MNUAT is accredited by the Tanzania Commission for Universities (TCU) and plays a critical role in advancing the national agenda for a knowledge-based economy driven by science, technology, and innovation (STI). As a center of excellence for agricultural sciences, engineering, ICT, environmental studies, business, and community development, MNUAT integrates teaching, research, consultancy, and production to address Tanzania’s most pressing development challenges.

The establishment of MNUAT was formalized in 2015, and major infrastructure development commenced through the support of the World Bank-funded Higher Education for Economic Transformation (HEET) Project, which allocated USD 44.5 million for construction and modernization. The University also operates a campus in Tabora Region, further expanding its reach to underserved regions and contributing to inclusive national development.

Academic Focus and Mandate

MNUAT is envisioned as a third- to fourth-generation university, emphasizing interdisciplinary learning, innovation, entrepreneurship, and impact-oriented research. It offers a growing number of undergraduate and postgraduate programs designed to produce graduates equipped with job-ready skills, entrepreneurial capabilities, and innovation mindsets.

In addition to formal academic programs, MNUAT supports:

• Business incubation and innovation clusters

• Entrepreneurial service units

• Community-based training for youth and SMEs

• Capacity-building programs for rural stakeholders

These initiatives are tailored to empower students and local communities in commercial agriculture, agro-processing, technology application, and industrial development.

MNUAT also prioritizes partnerships with sectoral ministries, private sector actors, NGOs, community-based organizations (CBOs), and faith-based organizations (FBOs) to ensure its teaching and research remain relevant, collaborative, and impactful.

Vision

"To become a leading world-class University in advancing knowledge and innovation in agriculture, engineering, and technology for societal transformation.".

Mission

"To provide quality education, training, research, and public services in the fields of agriculture, engineering, technology, and related disciplines for sustainable socio-economic development of Tanzania and beyond."

Core Values

MNUAT is guided by the following core values:

• Excellence – Commitment to the highest standards in teaching, research, and service.

• Integrity – Upholding ethical behavior, honesty, and transparency in all operations.

• Innovation – Promoting creativity, problem-solving, and forward-thinking solutions.

• Inclusivity – Ensuring equal opportunity and embracing diversity in all forms.

• Sustainability – Advancing practices that promote environmental, social, and economic resilience.

• Community Engagement – Strengthening ties with communities through outreach and shared solutions.

A Living Legacy

MNUAT stands as a living tribute to Mwalimu Nyerere’s educational philosophy. His belief in education as a tool for equity, justice, and national progress continues to inspire the University’s commitment to developing future leaders who are socially conscious, scientifically competent, and globally competitive.

As a young but fast-growing institution, MNUAT is well-positioned to become a transformative force in Tanzania’s higher education landscape—bridging the gap between academic knowledge, applied innovation, and national development.