Head's Welcome Message

(Economics Department)

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It is indeed my pleasure to extend a warm welcome to all of to the Department of Economics, Zanzibar University. Whether you are returning students, visitors or joining our department for the very first time, we are thrilled to have you as part of our academic community.
The Department of Economics is committed to impart quality education, research skills and updated knowledge to students. Currently the Economics Department offers innovative Bachelor of Arts in Economics (BA Economics) and Master of Sciences in Economics and Finance (MSc in Economics and Finance) that teach the analytic and quantitative methods necessary to evaluate current National and International issues. The program combines a common set of core courses that teach theoretical and applied concepts with a set of elective courses that allow for concentration in various finance, policy and Project issues.

We are continuously striving to maintain internationally accepted quality standards and excellent education related to interactive methods in teaching and research. The Department is dedicated to cultivating a rich intellectual environment that fosters critical thinking, analytical skills, and a deep understanding of economic principles, methodologies and their application to the real-world.

Our Department members bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to the classroom, ensuring that you receive a quality education that prepares you to be competitive in the labour market and foster the cognitive and analytical capacity for national, regional and for the global economy. As the Head of the Department, I am committed to creating an inclusive and supportive learning environment where every student can thrive. We encourage you to actively engage with your instructors, fellow students, and the various resources available to you in Zanzibar University. Ask questions, share your thoughts, and utilize the vast array of learning materials and research facilities at your disposal.

In addition to academic excellence, we also encourage you to participate in extracurricular activities, student association, and events organized by the department. These opportunities will enable you to interact with like-minded individuals, network with professionals in the field, and enhance your overall university enactment.

Lastly, I want to emphasize the importance of hard work, commitment, and perseverance. Pursuing either a Bachelor or second degree program in economics requires commitment and a strong work ethic. Remember to manage your time efficiently and effectively, stay organized, and seek help when needed. Our department and staff are here to support you every step of your university journey. Once again, I extend a warm welcome to all students joining the Department of Economics at Zanzibar University.

Let us board on this exciting educational journey together, and I am confident that together we can achieve great heights. Best wishes for a successful and fulfilling academic year.

Best regards,
Dr. Issa Moh'd Hemed
Head of Economics Department,
Zanzibar University.

Department Background

The Department of Economics at Zanzibar University was established in 2003, following the development of the Bachelor's Degree of Arts in Economics. Later in 2014, the department established the Master programme of Sciences in Economics and Finance.
Since its inception, the department has played a crucial role in educating and shaping future economists in Zanzibar, equipping them with the knowledge and analytical skills necessary to contribute to both the government and private sectors. Currently, the Department offering two degree programmes,
Bachelor of Arts in Economics, this is a three Years-Bachelor Degree Program offered to undergraduate students. IT focused on imparting a broad based education, which is of international standard and at the same time tailored to the national needs. The program intends to equip students with necessary skills for working in public and private business sectors or pursue post-graduate studies in Tanzania or universities abroad. This program offered to undergraduate students who meet the following admission requirements.

1. Direct qualification (For Holders of Form Six Qualifications), the student who has form six qualifications can be admitted to join in Zanzibar University for studying degree program of the bachelor of Arts in Economics are supposed to have Two principal passes in the following subjects: Economics, Accountancy, Mathematics, Commerce, Physics, History, Biology, Chemistry, Economics or Geography.
2. Indirect qualification, the student who has Ordinary Diploma or Equivalent Qualifications can be admitted to join in Zanzibar University for studying degree program of the bachelor of Arts in Economics are supposed to have Diploma in Economics, Statistics, Development Studies, Economics of Development, Community Development, Business Administration, Accountancy, Management, Marketing, Banking and Finance, Islamic Banking, Agriculture, Rural Development Public Administration, International Relations and Diplomacy, Social Work, Procurement and Logistics Management or Accounting with an average of “B’’ or a minimum GPA of 3.0. OR Foundation Certificate of The OUT with a minimum GPA of 3.0.

Master of Sciences in Economics and Finance,

The ZU MSc. in Economics and Finance Programme is a four-semester structured two-year degree programme. The taught component of the programme has 17 course units and requires three semesters while the dissertation is to be completed in the fourth semester. The program specialized with three (3) specializations [Economics and financial analysis EFA; Project Planning and Management PPM and Economic Policy and Planning EPP.

ZU MSc. Economics and Finance Degree Programme aims to equip the student with the appropriate tools to understand and analyses contemporary issues in economic policy and finance. The programme provides basic training for doctoral level research, including a sound foundation in research methods and economic theory, whatever the student’s field of specialization. It is also vocationally relevant for careers both in the real sector the financial services sector as well as government/public sector. The programme will enable the student to develop transferable skills that will be of value to employers in the public and the private sectors. The MSc in Economics & Finance will provide students with:

1. an advanced training in the analysis of financial economic problems and policy of use in financial institutions, companies and public organisations;
2. a knowledge of modern economic and finance theory that is especially relevant to key applied financial economic areas;
3. a knowledge of financial quantitative methods beyond the undergraduate level that will provide mathematical, statistical and econometric skills to enable students to carry out quantitative analyses of financial economic problems;
4. a research training in economics and finance enabling students to continue to doctoral work;
5. a research training to enable students to undertake research in a commercial context.

Entry Requirements

This program offered to undergraduate students who meet the following admission requirements. Bachelor degree or Advanced Diploma in Economics and Business-related field with an average of “B” or a minimum GPA of 2.7. OR Postgraduate Diploma in Economics and Business related field with an average of “B+” or a minimum GPA of 3.5.

Achievement of the Department

Over the years, the Department of Economics at Zanzibar University has achieved notable successes. One of its major achievements, it has continues to produce a considerable number of graduates who have found successful careers in both the government and private sectors. These achievements highlight the department's commitment to providing quality education and its notable contribution to the economic development of Zanzibar and beyond.

The department has ensured that its graduates are well-prepared for the real-world challenges they may encounter in their professional lives. Through a combination of theoretical education, practical training, and exposure to real-world economic issues, students have been equipped with the necessary skills to analyze, evaluate, and provide solutions to economic problems.

Additionally, the department has fostered strong relationships with both the government and private sectors, creating opportunities for internships, research collaborations, and employment for its students. This has further enhanced the employability of graduates from our department at Zanzibar University.

Publications from Department