85 Tanzanian Students Set to Leave for Universities in India

A total of 85 Tanzanian students are expected to leave the country between August 21 and 23, 2026, to begin studies at various universities in India through overseas education agency Global Education Link (GEL).

The students and their parents attended a preparatory meeting at GEL’s offices over the weekend, where they received guidance on studying and living in India, including visa requirements, insurance, accommodation and other regulations.

The students were also handed their visas, flight tickets and official documents required for their admission and reception at their respective universities.

Speaking during the meeting, GEL Director General Abdulmalik Mollel urged the students to look beyond academic grades and use their time in India to develop international networks and identify opportunities that could benefit their careers after graduation.

Mollel said good academic performance remained important, but argued that the global employment market increasingly requires students to develop relationships, practical knowledge and an understanding of opportunities beyond the classroom.

“We need a good GPA, but there are also many opportunities there. You will study with children of people who own factories. We want you to stay close to such people and identify opportunities for yourself to get a job,” Mollel said.

He also encouraged the students to learn from India’s experience in areas such as small-scale industries and technology and eventually apply the knowledge they acquire to Tanzania.

Mollel said studying abroad should not only be viewed as a path towards obtaining academic qualifications, but also as an opportunity to gain exposure to different economic systems, industries and professional networks.

He further pointed to Europe as another potential destination for Tanzanian graduates, saying several European countries are facing shortages of workers as large numbers of people approach retirement age.

He therefore encouraged the students to consider learning additional languages, particularly French and German, to increase their chances of accessing international employment opportunities after completing their studies.

According to Mollel, GEL currently facilitates the departure of more than 800 Tanzanian students to study at universities abroad every year.

He said the agency plans to establish a dedicated unit from next year to connect its graduates with employment opportunities through major companies seeking professionals both within Tanzania and internationally.

The latest group of 85 students is therefore being encouraged to approach their studies in India not only as an academic journey, but also as an opportunity to develop skills, relationships and international experience that could shape their careers after graduation.