Prime Minister Kassim Majaliwa has highlighted adult education as a vital tool for sustainable development, saying it goes beyond traditional learning to boost income, social well-being, health, and civic engagement.
Speaking on Monday, August 25, 2025, during the closing conference of the 50th anniversary celebrations of the Institute of Adult Education (IAE) at the Julius Nyerere International Convention Centre, Majaliwa said global experience confirms that adult education drives social, economic, and personal growth.
“Education is a lifelong journey. Adult education is not only for adults; young people can also join and benefit from the various skills programs offered by the Institute,” he said.
He acknowledged the Institute’s remarkable achievements over the past 50 years, noting its unique contribution to national development.
“The Institute has consistently advised the Government on policy and technical matters related to adult and non-formal education, reaching Tanzanians who previously had no access to basic education,” Majaliwa said.
The Prime Minister directed the Ministry of Education, Science, and Technology, in collaboration with the Institute, to expand access to adult education, especially in remote and marginalized areas, and to ensure programs address emerging social and geographic challenges.
Majaliwa also urged the Institute and partners to conduct regular research to identify challenges in adult education and develop innovative solutions tailored to community needs.
Education Minister Prof. Adolf Mkenda highlighted key initiatives by the Institute, including the Secondary Education Quality Improvement Project (SEQUIP), which reintegrated 13,272 girls into the education system over five years.
Another project, the Integrated Programme for Out-of-School Adolescents (IPOSA), has empowered 10,000 youth with life skills, entrepreneurship, and basic technical training.
Prof. Philipo Sanga, Director of IAE, said the Institute takes pride in supporting the Sixth Government’s efforts to improve education systems, including inclusive policies that leave no group behind.