Functions
The functions of the SPMC are:
To undertake basic research in the biology and ecology of plant and animal pests.
To train under-graduate and postgraduate students in areas of pest biology, ecology and management.
To provide extension services, and undertake consultancy in pest management activities.
To serve as a major networking Centre for pest research and management activities in Tanzania.
To serve as a reference centre for literature on pest research, and management activities.
The SPMC consists of three sections:
Pest Biology and Ecology Research
Animal/Public Health Pest Research
Pest Management, Plant and Environmental Protection Research.
Each of these three Sections is administered by a Head of Section
The major activities of SPMC consists (but not exclusive) of the following:
1. Co-ordinate pest research activities at SUA.
2. Negotiate working relationships in the form of Memoranda of Understanding with similar institutions involved in pest research and management worldwide.
3. Solicit funds from governmental and non-governmental donor agencies for pest research activities.
4. Host top researchers in the field of pest research from different parts of the world.
5. Host Professorial Research Chairs at SUA by local or foreign researchers.
6. Develop an excellent research environment, and where applicable own and protect research patents for commercialization.
7. Hold Workshops/seminars/short training courses in pest research and management.
8. The initial core infrastructure of SPMC is the former Rodent Research Project which had a long dating tradition in rodent-pest research and adequate space to accommodate some of the SPMC activities.