Tanzania pushes for techdriven education

Tanzania pushes for techdriven education

DAR ES SALAAM, June 18 (NNN-DAILYNEWS) — PRIME Minister Kassim Majaliwa has issued a set of strategic directives to the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology aimed at improving the education sector through the Tanzania Institute of Education (TIE).

He directed the Ministry and TIE to continue strengthening the use of Information Communication Technology and other technologies to develop and deliver quality teaching and learning resources.

Majaliwa made the directives during the celebration of TIE’s 50th anniversary held in Dar es Salaam, under the theme “One Student, One Book – Give Me a Book, Touch My Dream.”

“It is important to embrace modern technology in the preparation and distribution of educational materials in improving the sector The government will continue to empower TIE so it can keep pace with technological advancements in order to improve education delivery,” he said.

The Prime Minister also directed the Ministry to oversee the phased acquisition of modern printing machines, allowing TIE to gradually replace outdated equipment and enhance the efficiency and quality of its publishing operations.

The Premier further directed TIE to continue carrying out its responsibilities in accordance with the law that established the institution Act No. 13 of 1975 and to implement updates made to the law in different periods in order to fulfill the country’s education.

“This will ensure that Tanzanian students’ progress at the same pace regardless of where they live or the school they attend,” Majaliwa added.

He highlighted the government’s recent achievements, including the acquisition of a modern printing machine and the establishment of three smart classrooms for in-service teacher training. Mr Majaliwa reaffirmed the government’s commitment to building strong systems that will support TIE in achieving its long-term vision.

The vision includes establishing a large-scale book printing facility, integrating advanced teaching technologies, and securing reliable transport systems to ensure that educational materials reach all regions of the country.

Minister for Education, Science and Technology, Prof Adolf Mkenda said the government has made significant progress in reviewing and reforming education policy and curriculum.

He said that under the leadership of President Samia Suluhu Hassan, the government has completed the development of a modern curriculum that responds to the demands of the current era and lays the foundation for transformative education.

TIE Director General Dr Aneth Komba noted the institution’s achievements over the years, saying the institute has led six major curriculum reforms since independence, with the most recent taking place under the directive of President Samia. She said the 2023 reforms aim to produce graduates equipped with practical skills for self-employment, formal employment, daily life challenges and realworld problem-solving.

“Between 2021 and 2024, the government enabled the writing and printing of millions of textbooks for pre-primary, primary, secondary and teacher training institutions. Special attention was also given to inclusive education, with the production and distribution of hundreds of thousands of large-print and Braille books for students who are visually impaired,” She said that materials have been distributed to ensure equitable access, maintaining a favourable book-tostudent ratio.

Dr Komba added that in line with technological advancement, TIE has developed a national digital library that hosts all official textbooks, teacher guides, curricula, syllabi and a wide range of multimedia resources such as animated content and video tutorials showing real classroom teaching methods.

“This initiative is part of efforts to enhance access to educational content and integrate digital tools in learning,” she added.

Dr Komba said the institute also plans to increase its investment in educational research to support evidencebased decision making by the government.

She noted the importance of adopting modern teaching strategies that incorporate digital tools and artificial intelligence and upgrading publishing infrastructure with advanced printing machines to meet growing demand.

The golden jubilee celebration was marked by a series of events, including a charity walk in support of the “One Student, One Book” campaign, the launch and handover of ICT laboratories to two schools in Lushoto District, professional training sessions for curriculum developers and teachers, tree planting activities and the unveiling of a commemorative book that reflects on TIE’s journey, achievements and future aspirations. — NNN-DAILYNEWS

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