More than 1.58 million Standard Four pupils across Tanzania will sit for the National Assessment Examination from October 22 to 23, 2025, an event that marks a critical milestone for children, families, and the nation’s education goals.
The National Examinations Council of Tanzania (NECTA) said 1,582,140 pupils from 20,517 schools are registered, including 764,290 boys and 817,850 girls, reflecting the country’s commitment to gender equality in education.
Speaking in Dar es Salaam, NECTA Executive Secretary Prof Said Ally Mohamed emphasized that the assessment is more than a test it is a way for parents, teachers, and communities to understand how well children are learning essential skills like reading, writing, and arithmetic.
“Over 93 percent of pupils will take the exam in Kiswahili, while a smaller group of 106,503 pupils will sit in English. We also have 5,750 children with special needs, including those with visual, hearing, intellectual, and physical challenges, ensuring that no child is left behind,” Prof Mohamed said.
The two-day examination covers six core subjects: Science, Mathematics, Geography and Environment, Arts and Sports, Kiswahili, English, Civics and Moral Education, and History of Tanzania.
Pupils learning foreign languages such as French, Arabic, or Chinese will take one language exam of their choice.
Prof Mohamed highlighted that the exercise is crucial for tracking learning outcomes, helping teachers adjust teaching methods and enabling parents to support children at home.
“This assessment helps communities identify where pupils need more attention, ensuring every child has the chance to succeed,” he said.
Authorities have completed all preparations, including distributing exam materials to schools nationwide and training invigilators to ensure fairness and transparency.
NECTA also urged vigilance to prevent cheating, reinforcing trust in the education system.
This assessment reflects Tanzania’s long-term goal under Vision 2050 to strengthen foundational education and equip young learners with the skills they need for future success.
For parents and communities, the upcoming exams are an opportunity to celebrate children’s progress, encourage their efforts, and collectively invest in a brighter future for the next generation.