The changing face of education as new policy implementation kicks off

Dar es Salaam. The government is set to officially start implementation of the new education and training policy when schools resume next week with the introduction of an enhanced curriculum.

The initial phase will start with immediate implementation of the new policy for pre-primary, grade one, and grade three in primary schools, right after the opening of the school year. The implementation of the vocational training option for Form One students in select secondary schools that meet the necessary requirements will also commence this month, according to Educational Circular No 5 of 2023.

Curriculum changes for upper secondary schools are scheduled to begin in July 2024, the circular further indicates.

"Students in primary and secondary schools this year will complete their studies using the current curriculum. However, those joining Form One in 2024 will experience a dual curriculum scenario, with practical students following the improved curriculum while general education students continue with the existing one," the circular noted.

The minister for Education Prof Adolf Mkenda, says changes in curriculum are prompted by the need for education reforms.

"Young people must acquire skills for seamless entry into the job market worldwide, and that's precisely what we are initiating now," he told The Citizen in an interview yesterday.

The Education and Training Policy, 2023 edition, that came up with the changes was officially approved by the government only after extensive consultations with stakeholders.

 System changes

A significant change outlined in the new policy is the education structure, denoted as 1+6+4+2/3+3+. In this schooling system, pre-primary education spans one year and primary education takes six years. Lower secondary education (Forms One to Four) extends for four years. Upper secondary school takes two years for students undertaking general education subjects and three years for students in the vocational training stream. Higher education remains at three years or more, according to the type of course.

Enrollment age adjustments accompany the structural changes, with the pre-primary class admitting five-year-olds and the standard-one class admitting six-year-olds. Primary and lower secondary education, totaling ten years, will be compulsory and free.

The lower secondary education phase introduces two streams: general education and vocational or practical education. After completing the sixth grade in primary schools, students will take a national test and decide between general and practical secondary education when entering Form One.

General education students will delve into six compulsory subjects, while vocational stream students will study one business field and four compulsory subjects. Graduates from the vocational option will be awarded certificates from both the National Council for Technical and Vocational Education and Training (Nactvet) and the National Examinations Council of Tanzania (Necta).

The improved curriculum introduces new subjects aligned with current needs, according to the circular. Tanzanian history, morals and ethics subjects will be taught in Kiswahili so as to foster patriotic and responsible citizens.

Religion subjects have been given prominence and are to be taught based on age and national values. Additional primary education subjects include geography and environment, arts and sports, and science.

For lower secondary education, computer science and business studies have been introduced, with business becoming compulsory for all streams. Higher secondary education sees the inclusion of academic communication in Forms V and VI to enhance graduates' academic communication skills.

While private schools prepare for the curriculum change, a head teacher from Dar es Salaam told The Citizen yesterday that the early stages will be challenging.

“… We must change the vision of education for the future of our nation," he noted.

In a bid to facilitate a smooth transition, private schools are engaging in training sessions organised by the Tanzania Institute of Education (TIE).

"The difficulty will be present initially, but with time, we will adapt. This transformation is crucial for our nation's future," a source told The Citizen.

Further emphasising the magnitude of the change, a letter of invitation to private school owners highlights the need for capacity building among teachers. The letter instructs each institution to nominate ten teachers for training on the implementation of the improved curriculum, emphasising their role as facilitators for other teachers in their respective schools.

An education expert, Dr Samir Amina, said the changes mark a pivotal moment in Tanzanian education.

“The emphasis on practical skills aligns with global trends, ensuring our students are well-prepared for the challenges of the modern workforce. Let’s hope that it works," she says.

Additionally, curriculum development specialist Dr Ahmed Ahmed underscored the policy's forward-looking approach.

He said: "The incorporation of new subjects reflects a commitment to addressing the evolving needs of our society. It's a positive step towards creating well-rounded individuals."

"But I want to call upon Tanzanians to remain patient as the government starts implementations. This journey may have its challenges, but the vision for a brighter, more adaptable education system is a beacon guiding the way forward,” he added.

Prof Mkenda, a key figure in this educational overhaul, noted that the government is laying the foundation for a future where Tanzanian graduates are not only academically proficient but equipped with the practical skills demanded by the ever-evolving global landscape.