TCRA launches nationwide campaign to establish digital clubs in schools

Dar es Salaam. The Tanzania Communications Regulatory Authority (TCRA) has launched a nationwide campaign to advocate for the establishment of digital clubs in schools, starting from primary schools and extending to university levels.

This initiative is part of a broader strategy to promote the growth of ICT and the use of digital applications.

TCRA’s Director General, Dr Jabiri Bakari, stated on Monday, June 10 that the initiative is being implemented in collaboration with various education and ICT stakeholders to ensure the establishment of digital clubs at every educational level.

He said the digital clubs were a key foundation for coming up with homegrown creativity and innovations in the mitigation of home challenges.

He added that the current campaign covers Zanzibar, the southern highlands, the central zone, the northern zone, the eastern zone, and the lake zone.

“Active participation in these clubs not only keeps students abreast of technological trends but also opens doors to career opportunities through expert coaching and mentoring,” he noted.

For his part, TCRA’s Lake Zone manager, Ms Imelda Salum, highlighted the significant role these clubs play in equipping Tanzanian youth with the skills needed to thrive in a digital economy.

“Digital clubs are not just extracurricular activities. They are instrumental in building a community that is knowledgeable, skilled, and equipped to contribute to our national objectives, which are centred on crafting a digital Tanzania,” she said.

The initiative also fosters deep engagement with STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields, bolstering students’ critical thinking, creativity, and innovative capabilities.

Imelda emphasised that the clubs are open to all students, not just those with a pre-existing interest in STEM, making every student a potential participant.

“Active participation in these clubs not only keeps students abreast of technological trends but also opens doors to career opportunities through expert coaching and mentoring,” added Imelda.

She noted that these clubs effectively bridge the gap between academic theory and real-world applications by connecting students with industry leaders.