Under the agreement UNDP will support the University in areas such as curriculum development, scientific research, publications, funding for learning and teaching events, technical assistance, and library materials, among others. Also the University will be able to place students in internships within the UNDP development projects throughout the country.

Speaking at the MoU signing ceremony, the UN Resident Coordinator and UNDP Resident Representative in Mozambique, Ndolamb Ngokwey, stressed that this agreement “is not just a statement of intentions but a concrete action plan with budgets that will further build the UEM’s capacity to contribute for poverty eradication in Mozambique”.

Noting the pivotal role of education in the development arena of a nation, Ngokwey added: “As we sign this agreement, we are sure that issues such as human development, regional integration, participatory governance, decentralization, HIV/ AIDS, the environment, among others of national and international interest will be more present in the University’s curricula and research work”.

The UEM Chancellor, Professor Filipe Couto praised the role the UN has historically played in Mozambique. “The UN has helped in peace process of Mozambique and now is an excellent partner in development,” he said adding that “unfortunately people blame the UN for all the troubles of the world and do not focus on its great work.”

Professor Couto told the gathering that UEM has just approved the creation of a Rural Development Faculty which will benefit greatly from the UNDP support. “We look forward to enhancing our valued cooperation UNDP, so that our students and faculty can make a more significant contribution in the development of Mozambique.

UNDP has been supporting several institutions in capacity building for their development intervention. Early this month, the UNDP signed a MoU with Televisão de Moçamibique (TVM), a state owned TV network with national coverage. Under this MoU, UNDP committed to build the capacity of TVM, in personnel training and equipment, to better cover development topics.

For more information, please contact:

• UN Communication Officer
• UNDP Communication Unit

To see the contacts please visit the Contacts of the public information office http://www.undp.org.mz/en/newsroom/contacts_of_the_public_information_officer