Italian Ambassador Champions Education And Science Partnership At Rucu

Rev. Dr. Pius Peter Mgeni the Financial Controller of the university on behalf of RUCU Deputy Vice-Chancellor Sr. Prof. Chrispina Shosesharuwa Lekule, he said the RUCU Science Park is envisioned as a centre of excellence that will promote scientific research, innovation, technology transfer and entrepreneurship.

Iringa. The Ambassador of Italy to Tanzania, Mr Giuseppe Coppola, has reaffirmed Italy’s commitment to strengthening cooperation with Tanzania in education, science and culture following his visit to Ruaha Catholic University (RUCU), where he is scheduled to officiate at the foundation stone–laying ceremony for the RUCU Science Park and the launch of the International Cultural and Education Project.

The ceremony will take place on Thursday, January 22, 2026, at the RUCU Science Park premises between 8:30 am and 9:30 am, and is expected to attract senior government officials, diplomats, academics, development partners and members of the public.

Iringa Regional Commissioner, Mr Kheri James (L) welcomes the Ambassador of Italy to Tanzania, Mr Giuseppe Coppola. (Photo by Friday Simbaya)

Visit to Regional Leadership

As part of his official programme, Ambassador Coppola paid a courtesy call on the Iringa Regional Commissioner, Mr Kheri James, where the two leaders discussed the long-standing historical ties between Italy and Tanzania, as well as opportunities to deepen collaboration in education, culture and development initiatives in the region.

During the meeting, the ambassador highlighted the historical presence of Italians in Iringa and their contribution to social, religious and educational development, particularly through missionary activities and the establishment of community institutions several decades ago.

Regional Commissioner James welcomed the ambassador and commended Italy’s continued support to Tanzania, noting that partnerships with foreign diplomatic missions play a crucial role in accelerating both regional and national development goals.

RUCU Science Park: A Hub for Innovation

Speaking on behalf of the university, Rev. Dr. Pius Peter Mgeni the Financial Controller of the university on behalf of RUCU Deputy Vice-Chancellor Sr. Prof. Chrispina Shosesharuwa Lekule, he said the RUCU Science Park is envisioned as a centre of excellence that will promote scientific research, innovation, technology transfer and entrepreneurship.

“The Science Park will provide a supportive environment for students, researchers and innovators through modern laboratories, research facilities and platforms for collaboration with industry and international institutions,” said Prof Mgeni.

RUCU management added that the facility will strengthen applied research in key areas such as agriculture, health sciences, environmental studies and technology, in line with Tanzania’s national development priorities and the global sustainable development agenda.

International Cultural and Education Project

In addition to the Science Park, Ambassador Coppola will also officiate at the launch of the International Cultural and Education Project, an initiative designed to promote cross-cultural learning, academic exchanges and joint research between Tanzanian and Italian institutions.

The project is expected to create opportunities for student and staff exchange programmes, joint degree courses, language and cultural studies, as well as collaborative research in both science and humanities.

Profile of Ambassador Giuseppe Coppola

Ambassador Giuseppe Coppola is a seasoned diplomat with extensive experience in international relations, development cooperation and cultural diplomacy. Prior to his appointment to Tanzania, he served in several diplomatic missions where he played a key role in strengthening bilateral relations, supporting education initiatives and promoting economic and cultural partnerships.

Since assuming office in Tanzania, Ambassador Coppola has actively engaged with government institutions, universities, civil society organisations and the private sector, championing education-led development and people-to-people diplomacy. His tenure has seen increased collaboration between Italian and Tanzanian universities, particularly in research, innovation and capacity building.

Public Invitation

RUCU has invited members of the university community, education stakeholders and the general public to attend the foundation stone–laying ceremony, describing it as a milestone in advancing education, science and international academic diplomacy in Tanzania.

University officials said the event reflects RUCU’s commitment to becoming a regional hub for innovation and knowledge creation, while strengthening Tanzania’s engagement in global academic partnerships.

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