By Alfred Zacharia
Tanzania has developed its first national sign language dictionary, a landmark achievement that supports inclusive education across the country.
The Tanzania Institute of Education (TIE) announced this milestone on Friday as it marks 50 years since its establishment.
Dr. Aneth Komba, Director General of TIE, revealed the dictionary during a seminar with editors and journalists in Dar es Salaam.
She said the dictionary helps deaf students learn better at all education levels, from early childhood to university.
“This dictionary is loaded onto tablets given to the students. It is also available online at www.tie.go.tz,” Dr. Komba said.
The dictionary is part of wider efforts to improve learning for students with disabilities, providing a crucial tool for teachers and students to communicate and understand lessons effectively.
Over the past 50 years, TIE has expanded its resources significantly.
Dr. Komba reported that the institute now holds over 1,400 reference books, novels, poems, and other creative writings. These materials are available in both print and digital formats, increasing access for students nationwide.
TIE also organizes the Mwalimu Nyerere National Creative Writing Awards to encourage local authors. The awards started by recognizing novelists and poets in 2023, then expanded in 2024 to include children’s stories, and will cover drama from 2025.
Additionally, TIE produces textbooks and teachers’ guides for schools teaching in Kiswahili and English. These cover all levels, from pre-primary education to teacher training colleges.
To promote equal education, all core textbooks have been translated into braille and large print for students who are blind or have low vision.
Dr. Komba explained that science textbooks are distributed at a one-to-one ratio—one book per student. For other subjects, the ratio is one book for every three students.
Since its founding in 1975, TIE has played a vital role in shaping Tanzania’s education system by developing curricula and educational materials that support quality learning for all children.
This new sign language dictionary and expanded resources reflect Tanzania’s ongoing commitment to inclusive education and access for all learners.