The University of Dar es Salaam (UDSM) is the oldest and largest public university in Tanzania, established in 1970 after evolving from the University College Dar es Salaam, which was founded in 1961. It began as an affiliate of the University of London, later joining the University of East Africa before becoming a fully autonomous institution. Over the decades, UDSM has played a central role in higher education, research, and national development, producing skilled graduates who have gone on to serve in leadership, academia, business, and government.
The main campus is located at Ubungo, about 13 kilometers from Dar es Salaam’s city center, and it is well known for its expansive environment and modern academic facilities. UDSM hosts several colleges, schools, and institutes that offer programs in science, engineering, law, education, humanities, business, and social sciences. The university also operates specialized research units and affiliate campuses across the country, contributing significantly to innovation and policy development in Tanzania.
With a mission to become a leading university in Africa, UDSM focuses on academic excellence, technological advancement, and community engagement. It collaborates with international institutions, supports postgraduate training, and encourages entrepreneurial initiatives, making it a hub for knowledge creation and national transformation.