Vision
A prosperous and sustainable society
To empower future generations through education, support programmes and charitable work, cultivating a prosperous, self-reliant society grounded in values and ethics.
The foundation behind Zanzibar University
Daral Iman
Daral Iman
Charitable Association
Transforming generosity into education, opportunity and lasting community impact since 1996.
Discover our story1996DICA registered in Zanzibar
1998Zanzibar University established
Z0000113778Association registration
Our beginning
A charitable vision that became a university
Daral Iman Charitable Association (DICA) was registered under the Societies Act No. 6 of 1995 on 2 August 1996, with its headquarters in Zanzibar.
Following an agreement with the Revolutionary Government of Zanzibar on 11 January 1998, the Association established Zanzibar University as an endowment university—the first university in the Isles.
Today, DICA remains the founder, owner, sponsor and principal financier of the University's activities and infrastructure. Through endowments and the generosity of donors, it also helps students gain access to higher education.
Education is at the heart of DICA's commitment to a capable, self-reliant and values-led society.
11 January 1998A defining moment for higher education in Zanzibar
Our direction
Giving with purpose. Building for generations.
Mission
Education that improves lives
To provide quality education and sustainable charitable programmes that improve lives, advance community development and encourage inclusion, generosity and cooperation.
What we work toward
Objectives designed around human progress
DICA combines learning, social support and institutional partnerships to create practical, sustainable opportunity.
Education & values
Promote education, ethics and values across Zanzibar and Africa through sustainable institutions and investment.
Learning institutions
Establish and support schools, educational centres and vocational institutions that respond to community needs.
Research & creativity
Develop cultural, research and rehabilitation units that encourage invention, creative management and useful specialisation.
Knowledge sharing
Educate through conferences, lectures, publications, exhibitions and public engagement that respects society and the law.
Student opportunity
Provide scholarships and financial assistance so learners from low-income families can pursue higher education.
Skills & livelihoods
Create community centres and vocational programmes that strengthen employability and economic independence.
Community wellbeing
Advance health, nutrition, environmental awareness and sustainable community development.
Meaningful partnerships
Work with public institutions, businesses and like-minded organisations to increase collective impact.
Areas of impact
Support that reaches beyond the classroom
DICA's programmes connect education with health, wellbeing, faith and community life.
Student sponsorship
Scholarships, fee discounts and student loan support help deserving learners continue their studies across different academic programmes.
- Scholarship assistance
- Tuition discounts
- Student loan support
Medical services
Through Al-Zahraa Dispensary, DICA supports health care for students, university employees and members of the surrounding community.
- Medical examination
- Diagnosis and laboratory screening
- Community health care
Community programmes
Arabic language learning, Ramadan support, lectures, Qur'an competitions and charitable programmes connect the University with its wider community.
- Arabic language programme
- Ramadan meals
- Mosque community services
Sports and wellbeing
DICA invests in sporting activities, student teams and gym facilities that encourage physical fitness, discipline and talent development.
- Team sports
- Talent development
- Campus gym facilities
Corporate governance
Accountability at the centre of our work
The Association is committed to high standards of corporate governance. Its structure is designed to respond to changes in the internal and external environment, with regular review of processes, rules, regulations and structures to support strong performance.
IntegrityTransparencyStewardshipContinuous improvement
Our vision lives through education