By Business Insider Reporter
NMB Bank and the University of Dar es Salaam (UDSM) are strengthening their partnership to develop young talent and improve graduate employability, highlighting the importance of closer collaboration between universities and the private sector in bridging the gap between academic qualifications and labour-market demands.
The initiative matters because academic achievement alone may not guarantee employment; graduates also need practical skills, professional exposure and an understanding of workplace expectations.
The five-year partnership combines recognition of academic excellence with employability programmes and career fairs designed to connect students with professionals and workplace opportunities. By bringing employers closer to students, the initiative seeks to strengthen the transition from university to work, improve graduates’ readiness for employment and help businesses access the skilled talent they need to grow.
Speaking at the NMB Best Student Awards 2025/2026 ceremony held on October 12, NMB Head of HR Shared Services, Joseph Ngalawa, said the partnership began in 2023 with the recognition of three students from the University of Dar es Salaam Business School (UDBS). It has since expanded to include 10 students from different academic disciplines.
Mr Ngalawa said NMB had also helped more than 150 graduates acquire knowledge and workplace skills through employability preparation programmes, alongside organising career fairs to connect students with professionals.
At the ceremony, 10 top-performing students received certificates and cash awards of TSh2 million each in recognition of their academic achievements.
UDSM Vice-Chancellor Prof William Anangisye commended NMB for sustaining the partnership, saying recognition of academic excellence motivates students to work harder.
He urged graduates to apply their education and skills to improve their communities and contribute to national development.
