Our Background History
Discover the rich heritage and evolution of the Institute of Public Administration — from its humble beginnings to becoming a Center of Excellence for public service training in Zanzibar.
About Us
Background Information
The Institute of Public Administration (IPA) was established by the Act No.1 of 2007 to support the Public Services Reform Programmes which calls for effectiveness and efficiency in Public services.
Empowering public servants with skills, knowledge, and competence for a developed Zanzibar.
Our Journey
A Timeline of Growth & Transformation
Chuo cha Uchumi
Back in the 1970s, the Institute of Public Administration was known as CHUO CHA UCHUMI under the control of the Ministry of Education - Zanzibar. The courses provided were mainly based on commercial studies, materials Management, and elementary Accounting.
Situated at Vuga, opposite the Institute of Kiswahili and Foreign Languages (IKFL) — now under the State University of Zanzibar (SUZA).
Chuo cha Watumishi
In 1984, the Institute changed to Zanzibar Institute of Training for Public Servants — CHUO CHA WATUMISHI. This followed the government's endeavors to improve public servants by providing a performance improvement programme for lower and middle cadres.
Relocation to Mizingani
In 2005, the so-called CHUO CHA WATUMISHI was shifted to the Mizingani building due to the establishment of the State University of Zanzibar (SUZA), which occupied the Vuga Building originally occupied by the Institute.
The Institute of Public Administration
The Institute of Public Administration (IPA) was formally established by the Act No.1 of 2007 to support the Public Services Reform Programmes which call for effectiveness and efficiency in public services.
A Center of Excellence
Today, IPA stands as a leading learning centre, equipping civil service officers with skills and knowledge while strengthening the intellect, character, and competence of civil servants to drive holistic development and increase productivity towards a developed country.
Key Milestones
Moments That Shaped Our Legacy
1970s
Founded as Chuo cha Uchumi at Vuga, focusing on commercial studies and accounting.
1984
Renamed Chuo cha Watumishi, dedicated to training public servants in performance improvement.
2005
Relocated to Mizingani building to make way for the new State University of Zanzibar.
2007
Officially established as the Institute of Public Administration by Act No. 1 of 2007.
Our Commitment
Supporting Public Services Reform Programmes through effectiveness and efficiency in training, research, and consultancy.
Be Part of Our Legacy
Join thousands of public servants who have advanced their careers through IPA. Your journey to excellence starts here.