The University of Dar es Salaam (UDSM) has once again secured a prominent presence in the global research arena as Professor Christine Noe is re-appointed to the Consultative Research Committee for Development Research (FFU).
This esteemed committee, which advises the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Denmark on Denmark’s support for development research, recognizes Prof. Noe’s exceptional contributions and expertise in the field.
A Testament to Academic Excellence
A statement released by the Danida Fellowship Center on January 28, 2025, confirmed that Prof. Noe will continue her invaluable work in the newly constituted committee after previously serving two consecutive terms from 2021 to 2024.
The Danish Minister for Development appoints members of the FFU, selecting only the most distinguished global researchers alongside a representative from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Denmark.
The Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Research at UDSM, Prof. Nelson Boniface, congratulated Prof. Noe on her prestigious re-appointment, emphasizing the importance of this milestone for the university’s research and innovation landscape.
“This prestigious re-appointment is a testament to Prof. Christine Noe’s outstanding contribution to research and academic excellence.
Her continued involvement in the Danish Consultative Research Committee is not only a personal achievement but also a strategic opportunity to strengthen UDSM’s global research collaborations and boost our innovation drive,” said Prof. Boniface.
The Role of the FFU in Global Development Research
The Consultative Research Committee for Development Research plays a crucial role in assessing research funding proposals, advising on competitive funding allocations, and ensuring quality assurance in development research projects.
As part of this committee, Prof. Noe will contribute to shaping the future of development research and fostering international collaborations.
Strengthening Research Partnerships Between UDSM and Danida
Prof. Noe, a distinguished geography scholar and principal of the College of Social Sciences (CoSS) at UDSM, expressed her gratitude and optimism about this appointment. She underscored the importance of continuity in research collaborations between UDSM and Danida, especially given recent changes in Denmark’s diplomatic mission in Tanzania.
“I was appointed in 2021 to fill a gap in the previous committee. I was again appointed in this position in 2022 to serve until last year, 2024. My re-appointment in the new committee is crucial for continuity of collaborations,” stated Prof. Noe.
She further highlighted the challenges posed by Denmark’s diplomatic withdrawal from Tanzania, which has led to a reduction in research funding and development support.
“This makes most of our higher learning institutions ineligible for funding, with some exceptions for only a few of them,” she noted.
A Global Network of Distinguished Scholars
Prof. Noe will serve in the FFU from 2025 to 2027 alongside other globally renowned researchers, including:
- Professor Lotte Meinert (Aarhus University, Denmark) – Committee Chairperson
- Professor John Rand (University of Copenhagen, Denmark)—Deputy Chairperson
- Professor John Christensen (Yonsei University, South Korea): Sustainable Development Expert
- Dr. Helene Maria Kyed (Danish Institute for International Studies—DIIS)—Senior Researcher
- Professor Anja Kaarina Nygren (University of Helsinki, Finland) – Environmental Research Expert
- Professor Ola Westengen (Norwegian University of Life Sciences-Noragric, Norway)—Agriculture and Development Specialist
- Professor Frauke Urban (Kungliga Tekniska Högskolan, Sweden)—Climate and Energy Expert
- Dr. George Abongomera (University of Basel, Switzerland): Clinical Research Specialist
- Professor Victoria Blanes-Vidal (University of Southern Denmark, Denmark) – Industrial Development Researcher
- Tove Degnbol (Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Denmark): Head of Department for Evaluation, Quality, and Learning
A Landmark Achievement for UDSM and Tanzanian Academia
Prof. Noe’s re-appointment reflects UDSM’s growing prominence in global research networks and highlights the university’s commitment to fostering international partnerships.
Her continued representation in the FFU ensures that Tanzanian perspectives remain integral in shaping global development policies and funding strategies.
As UDSM continues to expand its research influence, this recognition serves as an inspiration for young researchers and academics striving to make an impact on the international stage.
Prof. Noe’s leadership and expertise will undoubtedly contribute to strengthening UDSM’s global footprint and enhancing Tanzania’s role in development research.
Conclusion
The reappointment of UDSM’s Prof. Christine Noe to the Danish Consultative Research Committee is a prestigious achievement that underscores her dedication and expertise in the academic field.
Her role in the committee will not only enhance UDSM’s research collaborations but also contribute to the advancement of global development research.
As she embarks on this new term, her influence in shaping international research policies remains invaluable, ensuring that African voices are heard in critical discussions on development funding and innovation.
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