About NM-AIST
Advancing Research, Innovation, and Scientific Leadership for Africa
Established in 2007 and located in Arusha, Tanzania, the Nelson Mandela African Institution of Science and Technology (NM-AIST) was created as part of the Nelson Mandela Institution’s vision to establish world-class centres of excellence across Sub-Saharan Africa.
Named in honour of the late Nelson Mandela, the institution reflects his belief that education, science, and innovation are powerful tools for transforming societies and creating opportunities for future generations.
Today, NM-AIST serves students and researchers from across Africa, providing advanced postgraduate education while conducting research that addresses regional and global development challenges.
A Regional Centre of Excellence
NM-AIST was established to strengthen scientific capacity across Eastern Africa through advanced education, interdisciplinary research, and innovation.
As a member of the AIST Network, the institution contributes to NMI’s mission by:
- Developing highly skilled scientists, engineers, and innovators
- Promoting research that addresses Africa’s development priorities
- Strengthening regional and international collaboration
- Supporting innovation and technology transfer
- Building institutional capacity across the continent
Its strategic location in Arusha positions the university as a hub for academic collaboration within Eastern Africa and beyond.
Academic Excellence
NM-AIST is recognized for its commitment to postgraduate education, interdisciplinary learning, and research excellence.
The institution encourages students and researchers to tackle complex challenges through innovative thinking, scientific inquiry, and collaboration across disciplines.
By combining academic rigor with practical application, NM-AIST equips graduates with the knowledge and skills needed to contribute to sustainable development, scientific discovery, and technological advancement.
Areas of Focus
NM-AIST’s teaching and research activities span a wide range of scientific and technological disciplines, including:
- Engineering & Technology
- Information and Communication Science
- Computational and Data Sciences
- Materials, Energy and Environmental Sciences
- Life Sciences and Bioengineering
- Artificial Intelligence and Emerging Technologies
- Mathematical Sciences
- Innovation and Entrepreneurship
These areas reflect the institution’s commitment to addressing Africa’s evolving development priorities through science and innovation.
Research and Innovation
Research is central to NM-AIST’s mission. The institution promotes interdisciplinary research that contributes to solving real-world challenges in areas such as health, agriculture, energy, environmental sustainability, digital technologies, and industrial development.
Through collaboration with governments, universities, research organizations, and industry, NM-AIST supports the development of innovative solutions that generate lasting social and economic impact across Africa.
Quick Facts
Established
2007
Location
Arusha, Tanzania
Institution Type
Public Pan-African Research
University
Network
African Institutes of Science and Technology (AIST)
Focus
Postgraduate Education,
Research & Innovation
Common questions
Frequently asked questions
Discover NM-AIST
Explore NM-AIST’s academic programmes, research initiatives, innovation ecosystem, and opportunities for collaboration by visiting the official website.