Suma works at Ardhi University: Building Futures Through Higher Education
Position: Assistant Lecturer, Ardhi University
Years Active: 2010 – Present
School: School of Architecture, Construction Economics, and Management (SACEM)
Specialization: Construction Management, Quantity Surveying, and Project Controls
Suma Mwaitenda is a dedicated academic and researcher with over a decade of teaching and mentoring experience at Ardhi University, one of Tanzania’s premier institutions for the built environment. As an Assistant Lecturer, she:
- Teaches undergraduate courses including Entrepreneurship, Project Management, Quantity Surveying Professional Practice, and Construction Management.
- Coordinates student research and dissertation work while ensuring quality assurance within her department.
- Serves as a thought leader in integrating health and safety concerns into construction curricula, aligning education with industry realities.
- Supports institutional governance through committee service, and previously held the role of Honorary Secretary of the Academic Staff Association (ARISA) from 2014 to 2024.
Currently pursuing a PhD in Construction Management at the University of Johannesburg, bridging science, policy, and practice across Tanzania and South Africa. Suma’s academic vision is rooted in shaping ethical, competent, and socially responsive professionals who will build Africa’s future cities and infrastructure.
Leadership in Academia
ARISA – Ardhi University Academic Staff Association
Suma Mwaitenda served as Honorary Secretary of ARISA for a decade, contributing to the academic, welfare, and policy interests of the faculty community at Ardhi University. In this role, she represented academic staff in key institutional decisions and collective bargaining. She facilitated communication between university management and educational personnel. Led initiatives focused on staff development, quality assurance, and institutional governance. Her leadership at ARISA underscores her commitment to advancing academic professionalism and inclusive institutional culture in Tanzanian higher education.
ASAPUCT – Association of Public Universities and Colleges in Tanzania
Suma held senior leadership positions in ASAPUCT, contributing to inter-university collaboration and staff advocacy across Tanzania’s public higher education institutions. She supported policy dialogue between academic unions and the government. Oversaw financial planning and reporting as Treasurer, enhancing accountability and transparency. Played a coordinating role in national educational initiatives, especially on staff welfare and professional advancement. Her leadership at ASAPUCT reflects her deep engagement with the academic community beyond her home institution.