Stakeholders urge greater investment in early childhood education

Katavi. As the rollout of the 2014 Education and Training Policy (2023 edition) continues, education stakeholders have called for enhanced investment in early childhood education, underscoring its critical role in laying a strong foundation for future learning.

Speaking during a visit to model pre-primary classrooms at Ikuba Primary School in Mpimbwe District Council—part of the Global Action Week for Education (GAWE) commemorations—stakeholders emphasised the need for child-friendly learning environments equipped with appropriate materials and led by well-trained early childhood educators.

The Coordinator of the Tanzania Education Network (Tenmet), Martha Makala, highlighted the importance of quality classrooms, describing them as a fundamental pillar for effective early childhood education.

“This responsibility does not lie with the government alone,” said Makala. “It requires collective action involving parents, communities, organisations, and education partners to ensure that every child begins their educational journey in a safe and stimulating environment.”

She further stressed that investing in early childhood education entails more than infrastructure. “A classroom with attractive colours, engaging learning tools, and educational toys can inspire children’s enthusiasm for learning,” she said. 

“Children thrive in settings where they feel happy and emotionally secure. Learning through play, songs, stories, and interactive activities is key.”

Ikuba Primary School pre-primary teacher, Mlegimlegi Mtinga, underscored the pivotal role of educators in early childhood development.

“A pre-primary teacher is not just an instructor—they are also a caregiver, mentor, and role model,” said Mtinga. “Understanding the unique needs of young children is essential in fostering their early development.”

Meanwhile, the organisation Room to Read was commended for its efforts to improve reading skills among young learners through the creation of literacy-friendly environments. In partnership with local councils, the organisation is implementing a reading development initiative aimed at enhancing school infrastructure, including the renovation of libraries.

Speaking at an exhibition during the education week celebrations in Katavi Region, a Programme Officer at Room to Read Rachel Mbushi, , said the libraries are stocked with engaging and age-appropriate storybooks tailored to children’s literacy levels.

“We are also involved in publishing supplementary reading materials and storybooks for Grade One and Grade Two pupils,” said Mbushi. “To support this effort, we provide training for teachers in reading instruction, as well as training for headteachers and librarians in effective library management.”

In addition to physical libraries, Room to Read has launched a digital library initiative that enables children and communities to access books online, further expanding opportunities for literacy development across the region.