Back to School in Tanzania

Understanding Children’s Educational Pathways

The information presented in this article is based on field observations by Philippe Krynen, Vice-President of Partage Tanzanie, as well as by volunteers actively involved at the local level. Their day-to-day presence, close to schools and families, allows us to better understand the reality of schooling in Tanzania and to shed light on aspects that can only truly be grasped by living on the ground.

A structured but demanding education system

Schooling in Tanzania is compulsory from the age of 7 and follows a model inherited from the British system: seven years of primary education, followed by six years of lower and upper secondary school. In recent years, two years of pre-primary education have been added to the overall curriculum, although their implementation remains very uneven depending on the region.

Attendance that declines over time

While attendance in the early years of primary school is generally high, it gradually decreases, particularly in rural areas. Family responsibilities, farm work, and financial difficulties lead many children to leave school before completing the primary cycle.

Highly selective examinations

The educational pathway is marked by several national examinations that determine access to higher levels. At each stage, selection is strict, significantly limiting access to secondary education and higher education within the public system.

The real cost of “free” education

Although teachers’ salaries are covered by the State, families must still bear many expenses: school supplies, uniforms, examination fees, meals, or transportation. These costs represent a major obstacle for the most vulnerable households.

The language of instruction

Teaching is conducted in Swahili at primary level and then in English at secondary level. This linguistic transition poses a major challenge for many students and partly explains both the frequent resort to private schools when families can afford it and the high failure rates at selective stages.

A system in transition

Despite these challenges, the Tanzanian education system is gradually evolving. Curricula are becoming more diversified, particularly at secondary level, in order to open up broader opportunities for students and better respond to today’s challenges.

Partage Tanzanie’s commitment alongside children

In light of these realities, the work of Partage Tanzanie takes on its full meaning. By supporting children’s education over the long term, the association helps remove financial barriers and encourages students to continue their studies. Each sponsorship represents an additional chance for a child to stay in school, develop their skills, and build a brighter future.

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