ACTION WEEK FOR EDUCATION 2025 (GAWE 2025)

Theme: "Education Saves Lives - Protect Education in Emergencies"
Introduction
Tanzania's education system has faced numerous challenges in recent years, ranging from geopolitical instability to technological transformation. One of the most significant disruptions came with the COVID-19 pandemic, which exposed a deep digital divide across the country.
In response to the crisis, Tanzania accelerated its shift to e-learning platforms, making internet access more essential than ever. One notable initiative, Smart Class Tanzania, was launched in January 2019 to empower teachers and support student growth through digital tools.
Live teaching programs at Kibaha Secondary School (Kibaha Region) and Dodoma Secondary School (Dodoma City) were introduced to help address the teacher shortage. However, such platforms remain rare in the country.
During the pandemic, educational content was also delivered through television and radio. Social media platforms, especially WhatsApp, became essential tools for collaboration between teachers and students. Lessons could be shared, accessed, and reviewed from home, marking a shift in how education is delivered.
The Internet Library Program further helped by addressing textbook shortages, lowering costs, and improving access to materials.
However, the digital divide in rural areas casts a shadow over these advancements. Many communities still lack electricity, stable internet, or the budget to purchase necessary tools like computers, phones, and tablets. A shortage of trained teachers further compounds the problem. Some students have never used a computer or even a basic phone.
These issues are driven by factors such as limited funding, poor infrastructure, and a lack of technical expertise. Addressing them is not just a moral duty but also an economic and social necessity. The government must invest in broadband, digital devices, and training to ensure equitable access to quality education.

Causes and Impacts of the Digital Divide
Several core issues contribute to the digital gap in Tanzania:
Low Digital Literacy and Training
Many rural teachers lack training in digital instruction. Without skilled educators, students cannot acquire digital skills or benefit from technology in learning.

Infrastructure Gaps
Rural schools often lack electricity, internet access, and devices. This limits access to digital resources and learning opportunities.

Social and Geographic Disparities
The divide is not only rural vs. urban. It also affects children based on gender, age, and income. Without adequate tools, students are unable to access information or participate fully in their education.

Educational Exclusion
Students who fall behind digitally often lose access to vital resources. This harms their academic performance and limits future prospects. Limited engagement with the digital world reduces their ability to collaborate, communicate, and thrive.

Recommendations: How to Improve Digital Education
Invest in Education and Ensure Equity
Education systems worldwide are evolving. Tanzania must secure and commit adequate resources, especially for marginalised groups. According to the Incheon and Paris Declarations, governments should allocate at least 4-6% of GDP and 15-20% of public expenditure to education (UNESCO, 2024). Creativity and technology are key to building a strong educational future.

Strengthen Education Management Systems
Fragmented administration weakens the sector. Strengthening efficiency and accountability across the system will improve management and coordination. Enhancing the Education Management Information System (EMIS) will support better planning and resource allocation.

Conclusion
Bridging the digital divide is essential to ensure rural students receive the same quality of education as those in urban areas. By investing in infrastructure, training, and funding, the government can take major steps toward a more inclusive and equitable education system.

Author: Emmanuel Kavula
Location: Mbogwe, Geita