In a significant departure from traditional approaches, Tanzania is reimagining adult education as a comprehensive pathway to skills development, employment, and active civic participation. As the country observes International Literacy Day and prepares for Adult Education Week, this transformation reflects a broader commitment to inclusive education and lifelong learning.
The shift comes against the backdrop of persistent literacy challenges. According to the 2022 Population and Housing Census, Tanzania’s illiteracy rate stands at 18%, with women disproportionately affected. In response, the government is prioritizing Adult and Non-Formal Education (ANFE) to reach those who missed formal schooling or require alternative learning opportunities.
Redefining adult education’s purpose and scope
The Institute of Adult Education (IAE), a central player in this initiative, emphasizes that adult education is about more than basic literacy. Prof Philipo Sanga IAE Rector, argues that the sector should focus on providing practical skills that improve livelihoods and foster self-reliance.
“Adult education offers a second chance to those whose educational journeys were interrupted,” Prof Sanga explains. “It provides flexible opportunities tailored to individual circumstances and immediate needs, whether in agriculture, business, health, or technology.”
This flexibility is crucial as communities adapt to evolving economic and social demands. The government’s Education Sector Development Plan 2025/26–2029/30 allocates substantial resources to support this vision, with 2.394tri/- budgeted for education, including 697.8bn/- for recurrent expenditure and 1.697tri/- for development projects.
Expanding access and opportunities
The Ministry of Education, Science and Technology is strengthening alternative secondary education and programs for out-of-school adolescents. Enrollment in alternative secondary education is projected to increase from 14,765 learners in 2025/26 to 16,000 in 2026/27. Similarly, beneficiaries of the Integrated Post-Primary Education Programme for Out-of-School Adolescents (IPOSA) are expected to rise from 16,732 to 22,500.
These figures highlight a broader policy question: adult education should enable citizens to make informed decisions, earn incomes, and continue learning throughout their lives. This theme will be central to the upcoming Adult Education Week celebrations, scheduled for September 21 to 25 in Simiyu Region.
Changing perceptions and raising awareness
The celebrations will feature exhibitions showcasing programs, services, and skills acquired by beneficiaries. Representatives from all 26 Mainland regions are expected to participate, underscoring the importance of local government involvement in implementing adult education initiatives.
Ms Godliver Nkala from the President’s Office–Regional Administration and Local Government, notes that inadequate public awareness is a major challenge. Many citizens remain unaware of the opportunities available through adult and non-formal education programs.
“The main objective is to make citizens understand that adult education exists and that it is much broader than reading and writing,” Ms Nkala states. “It also provides opportunities for entrepreneurship, income-generating activities, life skills, and other forms of learning.”
She calls for greater media involvement in informing citizens about available programs and encouraging potential learners to take advantage of them.
Strengthening systems and institutions
Development partners emphasize that expanding adult education requires stronger systems and institutions. Mr Godfrey Kweyamba Program Officer from DVV International, highlights the organization’s focus on inclusive education, capacity building, institutional strengthening, and sustainability.
“Our support operates at community, institutional, and policy levels,” Mr Kweyamba explains. “We believe adult education must be supported by strong systems and institutions to effectively respond to community needs.”
This support aims to ensure that programs can continue delivering benefits beyond individual projects and external funding, making adult education a sustainable and responsive component of Tanzania’s educational landscape.
