Sweden backs Tanzania’s push for quality early education
Dar es Salaam. The Swedish government has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Tanzania’s education sector, calling for increased investment in early childhood education and the teaching profession—both seen as critical pillars for sustainable development, democracy, and social equity.
Speaking at the Nobel Prize Teachers’ Summit Hub held in Dar es Salaam on Thursday, June 26, Swedish Ambassador to Tanzania, Charlotta Ozaki Macias, cited research highlighting the long-term benefits of early education on children’s cognitive development, emotional well-being, and civic engagement.
“Early childhood development isn’t just about health and nutrition; it’s also about giving young learners access to quality education from the very beginning. That’s where the real foundation is laid,” she said.
The summit, part of the global Nobel Prize Teachers’ Initiative, brought together 50 Tanzanian educators to exchange ideas, practices, and experiences inspired by the values and themes of the Nobel Prize.
The envoy emphasised the vital role of teachers as agents of democracy, noting that classrooms are key environments for promoting fairness, inclusivity, and equal opportunity.
“Democracy isn’t just a political concept—it must be lived every day, even on the school playground, where fairness and shared responsibility are learned,” she said.
“The more we invest in young learners and in the teachers who guide them, the more inclusive, prosperous, and democratic our societies will become.”
She added that the initiative aims to equip educators with practical strategies that foster creativity, critical thinking, and inclusion—transforming classrooms into vibrant spaces of learning.
The summit also sought to strengthen a network of motivated and connected teachers across Tanzania—local change-makers capable of driving educational and social transformation in their communities.
Participants had the opportunity to engage with Nobel Laureates, who shared insights on innovation, resilience, and the values essential for building a better world.
Among the speakers was Ms Neema Kirogo, a mathematics teacher and quality assurance officer from Ilala Municipal Council, who attended the Nobel Prize Teachers’ Summit in Stockholm in March.
“Attending the summit was a transformative experience. I learned innovative teaching methods and gained fresh perspectives on how education can be a powerful tool for change.
Hearing directly from Nobel Laureates inspired me to bring those lessons back home and encourage my students to strive for excellence,” said Ms Kirogo.
She also praised the initiative for creating a community of dedicated teachers committed to improving the quality of education across Tanzania.
