The Institute of Resource Assessment (IRA) formerly Bureau of Resource Assessment and Land Use Planning (BRALUP) was established in 1967 as an applied research wing within the University of Dar Es Salaam to support the government in planning and assessment of both human and natural resources. In July 1982 BRALUP was elevated to an Institute of the University of Dar Es Salaam. The Institute was established in accordance with the University of Dar Es Salaam Act of 1970. The Institute is both a multidisciplinary and an interdisciplinary research organization within the University of Dar Es Salaam.

 

BRALUP and later the Institute was established to address a range of issues related to resource management in Tanzania. The overall objective was to address the whole question of sustainable development. The specific objectives vary depending on the socio-economic circumstances in Tanzania. The current specific objectives of the Institute, therefore, are the following: -

• To carry out research and develop research capacities pertinent to the social, cultural, environmental and economic development of Tanzania
• To organise and assist research activities carried out by the staff of the Bureau and staff from other departments in related fields in the University of Dar es Salaam
• To co-ordinate and assist research carried out by staff seconded from government, research fellows from other research institutions and other visiting research workers
• To furnish advice, upon request, to the government, public and other organisations
• To arrange conferences, seminars or postgraduate courses on natural resources and land use-planning matters
• To collect information necessary for the research activities of the Institute
• To contribute to the training of Tanzania research staff within the areas of its competence and to provide specialised teaching materials for the University of Dar es Salaam and other related institutions.

 

Vision Statement

The Institute to become a high performance and reputable institution that excels in research, teaching and service provision to the community in natural resources management at national regional and international levels.

 

Mission Statement

To enhance sustainable capacity in human, financial and physical resources in order to excel in quality research, teaching and service provision to the community in natural resources management; and further IRA's image as a centre of excellence in knowledge creation and skills development at postgraduate level.