Digest: Education and Training Policy (2023)
What this policy means for your classroom practice
1) Shift from “general knowledge” to skills & competence
Policy says Tanzania must not only teach content but help students gain practical, work-ready skills (problem-solving, creativity, collaboration, ICT use, entrepreneurship).
In class:
- Use tasks, projects, investigations, experiments — not only copying and notes.
- Let learners do something meaningful with knowledge.
2) Child-centred & inclusive practice is no longer optional
Inclusive education, gender equity, talents, special needs, pace differences — these are now mainstream policy expectations.
In class:
- Diversify methods (group work, peer help, differentiated tasks).
- Identify learners’ needs and make adaptations.
3) Use of technology is expected to be integrated — not occasional
Policy emphasises ICT as a learning tool at all levels.
In class:
- Use available ICT (phone, projector, radio, TV, computer lab, offline apps).
- Let students also use technology, not just watch you use it.
4) Assessment must show learning progress — not only exam readiness
Policy calls for both continuous assessment and final external exams to show real learning, not memorisation only.
In class:
- Give formative tasks (exit slips, peer check, performance tasks, rubrics).
- Give feedback aimed at improvement, not only marks.
5) Language policy = deliberate practice in Kiswahili & English
Strong emphasis on competence in both languages depending on level.
In class:
- Provide structured speaking, reading, summarising and writing activities.
- Teach language use through subject work (not only grammar drills).
6) Environment, ethics & citizenship belong inside lessons
Cross-cutting issues (environment, peace, HIV/AIDS, ethics, national identity) are not “extra” topics — they must be embedded.
In class:
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Use examples, debates, community tasks, school-based projects.
7) Teacher professionalism & quality assurance are tightening
Quality control is being strengthened; teacher competence and conduct will be more closely regulated.
In practice:
- Plan lessons, keep records, use varied pedagogy, and grow professionally.
- Expect more observation, support, and accountability around teaching quality.
The core message for classroom teachers
Stop focusing mainly on teaching to cover the syllabus and prepare for exams.
Start focusing on developing capable, skilled, thinking students through active, inclusive, ICT-enabled learning and formative assessment.