Tanzania Agricultural Research Institute

For two months, the usually quiet corridors of the Tanzania Agricultural Research Institute (TARI) Kibaha were filled with the curiosity and energy of young scholars eager to turn theory into practice. A total of 23 students, 10 males and 13 females, from the University of Dar es Salaam, Mbeya University of Science and Technology, and the National Sugar Institute arrived at the centre for their field practical training, ready to learn from Tanzania’s leading agricultural researchers, particularly in sugarcane research.

Their arrival was marked by a warm welcome from Dr. Nessie Luambano, Centre Manager of TARI Kibaha, who reassured them of the institute’s commitment. “We are dedicated to ensuring that your placement here becomes a true real-work learning experience, and we will make every effort to provide what is necessary for the success of your training,” she said, setting the tone for their stay.

At the same time, 19 students (6 males and 13 females) from the Sugar Board of Tanzania (SBT) also visited the centre as part of their field practice program. Their visit offered them the opportunity to see firsthand how TARI Kibaha conducts research and shares technologies with stakeholders including farmers across the country.

Both groups immersed themselves in research activities focusing on sugarcane and root and tuber crops, including cassava and sweetpotato. From observing field trials to engaging in dissemination activities, the students experienced the real-world application of what they had previously studied in classrooms.

Robert Mlimi, a sugarcane researcher based at TARI Kibaha orienting field students on how scouting of pests in sugarcane is being done. Photo credit: Ngabo Pamba

Reflecting on the usefulness of the training, both formal and informal assessments carried out by the training institutions and individual researchers revealed that the students had built remarkable confidence. The knowledge and skills they gained enabled them to actively participate in ongoing research and extension activities at the centre. By the end of their placement, they were well-grounded in the scientific and practical aspects of sugarcane, sweetpotato, and cassava research.

Field students participating in management activities of the on-station sweetpotato trials. Photo credit: Ngabo Pamba

For many, the experience went beyond academic learning. It was about confidence-building, teamwork, and understanding the role of research in solving farmers’ everyday challenges.

Mosha, a young girl, second-year student from the University of Dar es Salaam, pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Botanical Sciences, was among those placed at the centre. Appreciating the value of the placement, she acknowledged: “Our stay at this centre has been very useful for our career development. It has helped us build hands-on skills in research and dissemination activities.”

Their story is a reminder that field practice is more than just a requirement for graduation; it is a transformative journey that shapes the future of agriculture through the next generation of scientists.