Pic: Prof. Makie Taal, Vice Chancellor of the International Open University (IOU), together with Dr. Mohamed Salum, IOU Tanzania Representative, visited Karume Institute of Science and Technology (KIST) in Unguja, Zanzibar, for a strategic engagement with the institute's management on 27 July 2026.

The meeting was hosted by a distinguished team from KIST, including Dr. Zuhura (Vice Principal), Mr. Omar Bhai (Head of Administration), Mr. Miraj (Head of the Science Department), and Dr. Bahati (Head of the Research Department).

The primary objective of the visit was to explore avenues for collaboration between the two institutions, with particular focus on joint research initiatives, hybrid-mode program delivery, and student and staff exchange programs.

The discussion proved highly productive, with KIST's management expressing strong enthusiasm and a clear interest in pursuing collaboration with IOU. Both institutions have agreed to move forward, and preparatory work to formalize the partnership will begin in the near future.

This engagement underscores IOU's ongoing efforts to build strategic academic partnerships across Zanzibar, expanding opportunities for research, innovation, and quality education.