Your Excellency, Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan, President of the United Republic of Tanzania. With utmost respect and courtesy, I extend my greetings to you. I wish to present my recommendations for the restructuring of our country's education system, specifically through the establishment of two distinct ministries dedicated to education.
Before outlining my suggestions, I must first highlight a critical issue: the current division of educational responsibilities between the Ministry of Education and the President’s Office - Regional Administration and Local Government (TAMISEMI) has created significant operational confusion, which is costly to our nation. There is a notable overlap in duties that hinders effective administration and delivery of education services. While it may be difficult for some to confront these issues, I believe it is important to address the underlying inefficiencies and inconsistencies within our system.
Given the admirable efforts you have demonstrated in improving the national curriculum, I propose the creation of two ministries to better align with the government's broader educational goals.
Before outlining my suggestions, I must first highlight a critical issue: the current division of educational responsibilities between the Ministry of Education and the President’s Office - Regional Administration and Local Government (TAMISEMI) has created significant operational confusion, which is costly to our nation. There is a notable overlap in duties that hinders effective administration and delivery of education services. While it may be difficult for some to confront these issues, I believe it is important to address the underlying inefficiencies and inconsistencies within our system.
Given the admirable efforts you have demonstrated in improving the national curriculum, I propose the creation of two ministries to better align with the government's broader educational goals.
1. Ministry of Education (MoE)
This ministry would have the sole mandate to oversee the entire chain of education from early childhood education, primary, secondary schools, and teacher training colleges. By centralizing these key aspects of education under one umbrella, we can create a more cohesive and streamlined structure that allows for better coordination and management.
Why and How this Change Will Help:
- Consistency in Curriculum Implementation: Centralizing responsibility under one ministry will eliminate fragmentation and ensure that the new curriculum is implemented uniformly and effectively across all levels of basic education. The Ministry will be able to monitor and support teachers, students, and schools with clearer direction and support.
- Accountability and Focus: This ministry will have a focused mandate to improve learning outcomes, teacher preparation, and student development at every stage of basic education. By doing so, it will be easier to track progress, identify challenges, and make the necessary adjustments more quickly.
- Quick and Measurable Results: With proper oversight and resources, this ministry could bring about improvements in educational outcomes in a shorter timeframe. It will directly address the specific needs of early, primary, and secondary education, as well as teacher training, which are fundamental to the country's human capital development.
2. Ministry of Science, Technology, and Higher Education
The second ministry I propose would be dedicated to overseeing higher education, scientific research, and technological development. This will allow higher learning institutions to move away from the current status where they function as “extended high schools” and instead become centers of excellence for research, innovation, and professional development.
Why and How this Change Will Help:
- Elevating Higher Education: By having a ministry that specifically focuses on higher education and technology, universities will be empowered to fulfill their true potential. They can become hubs of innovation, advancing the country’s scientific research capabilities and producing a highly skilled workforce to meet the demands of the global economy.
- Fostering Technological Advancement: In today's world, science and technology are at the heart of economic and social development. A dedicated ministry will ensure that Tanzania keeps pace with global technological advancements and builds capacity in areas such as digital innovation, renewable energy, and industrial technologies.
- Enhancing University Autonomy and Innovation: Universities will be encouraged to move away from rigid systems and be given the autonomy to innovate, develop relevant courses, and engage in impactful research that addresses both local and global challenges.
The Need for Change
The current system, where responsibilities are divided between different ministries, creates confusion and weakens our ability to respond efficiently to the evolving educational needs of the nation. By clearly separating responsibilities between two ministries—one focused on basic education and teacher training, and the other on higher education, science, and technology—we will create a more agile and responsive educational system.
This change is essential for ensuring that our schools and universities are able to produce not only educated citizens but also innovators, researchers, and skilled professionals who will drive Tanzania’s development forward in the 21st century.
This change is essential for ensuring that our schools and universities are able to produce not only educated citizens but also innovators, researchers, and skilled professionals who will drive Tanzania’s development forward in the 21st century.
Overall, these reforms will support your broader vision for a modern, dynamic education system that equips all Tanzanians with the knowledge and skills needed to thrive. I respectfully request that these suggestions be considered as part of your ongoing efforts to improve Tanzania’s education system and ensure it is fit for purpose in a rapidly changing world.
With respect and gratitude,
