Introduction
It is worth noting that within the setting of the contemporary market economy, high competition in the labor market is a typical phenomenon. A common belief exists, which claims that people with higher education have the opportunity to earn and achieve more than those without it (Shabani Mligo & Omanga Otieno, 2018). Education has always been one of the most significant parts of public policy since the future of the country depends on it to a significant degree; for this reason, educational initiatives are constantly being improved. The purpose of this paper is to discuss the importance of education and analyze the current educational environment in Tanzania.
Importance of Education
Experts in various fields argue that education plays a key role in human life. It affects not only the choice and building of a career but also the general course of life. Education allows a person to be a sought-after and professional specialist in their field of activity or makes it possible to function in new industries (Shabani Mligo & Omanga Otieno, 2018). However, in addition to this, education should develop in a person the ability to believe in themselves. It should help them achieve goals and assist in developing a realistic worldview through the ability to evaluate different situations and circumstances critically.
It is crucial to note that commitment to life-long learning is the key to the success of a person in any area of their interest. Most industries are developing rapidly and continuously, and people need to stay abreast of changes. Apart from that, education implies the acquaintance and study of different cultures through reading literature and other activities. One may argue that self-education is more important than education received at school and high school; however, it serves as a foundation based on which every individual can determine their own path for self-education.
It is also worth noting that education forms a person’s identity and qualities, such as self-discipline, determination, tolerance, sociability, craving for new sources of information, and much more (Shabani Mligo & Omanga Otieno, 2018). Accordingly, the developed qualities can help a person to adapt to the social environment, speak freely and openly on various topics and problems, express their thoughts and point of view better and find like-minded people. Needless to say, education is one of the instruments that help people form critical thinking skills, which can be applied to various aspects of living.
Tanzania
The United Republic of Tanzania is a country consisting of 30 regions and bordering states such as Uganda, Malawi, and so on. More than 90% of the population are Bantu peoples, representatives of more than 130 ethnic groups and tribes (Rwegoshora, 2016). Immigrants from India and Pakistan, as well as descendants of Arabs, also live in the country. The national languages in the state are Swahili and English (Graham, 2018).
Sometimes, cases of fraud and theft take place in the country, but they are most often observed in areas remote from police stations. In territories adjacent to the borders of Rwanda and Burundi, armed gangs have clashed with local law enforcement agencies. It is important that the terrorist incidents that took place in the recent past indicate that there is a continued threat from extremists of various kinds in the East African region. However, the Tanzanians are a friendly and sociable nation that honors their traditions and culture.
Education in Tanzania
The modern education system in Tanzania consists of several stages. The first compulsory level is primary education, according to which every child who has reached the age of 7 should be assigned to one of the city schools. Unlike in European countries, in primary school, a child is taught to count, write, and read; that is, children come to school unprepared. The second stage is optional, and this is a junior secondary education.
It means the child goes to a college or lyceum. The third level is senior secondary education, which can be equated to the generally accepted European standards of a university-level (Shabani Mligo & Omanga Otieno, 2018). However, unlike universities and institutes, Tanzanian educational institutions offer a limited number of areas.
It is important that more than half of Tanzania’s children do not attend school, and only 70% of the population have essential learning skills over the age of 15. Given that Tanzania is a country with a multimillion population, this statistic is alarming. In addition, many educational institutions lack academic materials and technologies. Most children receive only primary or basic education and stop their educational path at that point (Graham, 2018).
Nevertheless, the English language is native to the Tanzanians, which opens up the opportunity for them to participate in international programs. Families should be encouraged and given a possibility to educate their children, which will positively affect not only the literacy levels of the population but also the overall well-being of the nation. Literacy implies not only the possession of specific skills but also greater opportunities for people in terms of their careers.
Conclusion
Thus, it can be concluded that education is one of the most significant aspects of human life. It opens up new possibilities for people and reinforces their commitment to life-long learning. In Tanzania, many people do not have access to education, which affects all aspects of their lives. It is important for the government of this country to ensure everyone has equal access to educational services and is given an opportunity to study.
References
Graham, M. (2018). Contemporary Africa. London, England: Red Globe Press.
Rwegoshora, H. M. M. (2016). Social security challenges in Tanzania: Transforming the present – protecting the future. Dar es Salaam, Tanzania: Mkuki na Nyota Publishers.
Shabani Mligo, E., & Omanga Otieno, J. (2018). Cohabitation among students in higher-learning institutions in Tanzania: Its effects to academic performance. Eugene, OR: Resource Publications.