IAA embraces digital education with Sh4bn smart classroom initiative

Arusha. The Institute of Accountancy Arusha (IAA) is set to launch a smart classroom initiative aimed at expanding access to education and enhancing digital learning.

This initiative will commence in the 2025/26 financial year, with an estimated investment of over Sh4 billion.

IAA Principal, Prof Eliamani Sedoyeka, said: "Our institution plans to invest over Sh4 billion in modern teaching and learning technologies, including smart classrooms.

This will allow a large number of students to access education simultaneously, regardless of their location."

Prof Sedoyeka made these comments in Arusha on Saturday, March 21, 2025, during a visit by the Parliamentary Public Accounts Committee (PAC), which inspected infrastructure projects designed to improve the learning environment.

He emphasised that this investment aligns with the rapid advancements in Information and Communication Technology (ICT), making education more inclusive and accessible.

 "With these smart classrooms, a lecturer can teach from any of our campuses in Arusha, Dar es Salaam, Babati, Dodoma, or Songea, while students attend classes from anywhere," he explained.

In addition to improving local access to education, the smart classrooms are expected to attract international students, allowing them to study remotely without needing to travel to Tanzania.

This technology will also provide students with greater flexibility in managing their study schedules.

"The smart classrooms will feature video content, illustrations, online assessments, and other advanced tools to facilitate learning. This will enhance students' engagement, focus, and creativity," added Prof Sedoyeka.

PAC vice chairperson Japhet Hasunga praised IAA for its integration of ICT into education, stating that this investment would position the institution as a leader in quality education both nationally and internationally. "These technologies will ensure that students receive the same standard of education since one lecturer can teach multiple students across different locations simultaneously. I highly commend this initiative," he said.

However, Mr Hasunga urged IAA to ensure the project's successful implementation by adhering to investment objectives, maintaining financial accountability, and meeting expected outcomes.

PAC Committee Member and IAA alumna Ms Condester Sichalwe mentioned that the institution's advancements in higher education would help transform Tanzania's job market and technology sectors. "I studied at IAA for over seven years and know the institution well. I encourage anyone seeking quality education to join IAA, as it equips graduates with the skills needed to compete in the job market nationally and internationally," she said.

Ms Sichalwe emphasised that through smart classrooms, IAA would expand access to education both locally and globally, contributing to Tanzania's academic and economic growth.