Bagamoyo is stepping up preparations for the first intake of Form One students under Tanzania’s new curriculum in 2028, with the government directing that education infrastructure budgets be prioritized in the 2026/27 financial year.
The Minister of State in the Prime Minister’s Office for Regional Administration and Local Government (PO-RALG), Prof. Riziki Shemdoe, instructed Regional Administrative Secretaries to closely supervise District Executive Directors, ensuring that budget plans include funds for classrooms, dormitories, and other facilities needed to accommodate the surge of students joining Form One from Standard Six and Seven.
“In 2028, students graduating from Standard Six and Seven under the new curriculum will join Form One. We must allocate sufficient funds now to avoid last-minute challenges when receiving these students,” Prof. Shemdoe said during a working session with Bagamoyo Municipal Council officials.
The Minister urged Regional Commissioners nationwide to ensure accurate projections of student numbers, so that infrastructure improvements match actual demand.
During his inspection at Shishila Lwada Secondary School in Mapinga Ward, Prof. Shemdoe directed the construction of three new classrooms as part of readiness plans for 2028.
He also acknowledged the support of development partner Mr. Gaston Francis, who has pledged to build two additional classrooms worth TZS 50 million, bringing the total new classrooms to five.
Form Four student Ms. Disisheni Mwasele thanked Prof. Shemdoe, noting that the initiatives would help ease overcrowding and improve learning conditions.
The school’s Headmaster, Mr. Yusuph Anderson Joseph, said the government’s continued investment is crucial as student numbers have risen to 1,600.
Prof. Shemdoe’s tour also included inspections of projects at Matimbwa Secondary School, Bagamoyo District Hospital, and the local fish market, reviewing classroom construction, dormitories, administration blocks, and children’s facilities, as well as energy efficiency measures.
He concluded the visit with a working session with local government officials to ensure accountability in project execution.
“These investments are not just about buildings; they are about creating an environment where students can learn effectively and safely,” Prof. Shemdoe said.