The Minister for Education, Science and Technology, Adolf Mkenda, has directed School Quality Assurers to intensify oversight to ensure effective implementation of education policies, laws and strategic guidelines, as the country prepares for major structural reforms in the education sector.
Speaking on February 17, 2026, in Bagamoyo District, Pwani Region, during the opening of an induction training for District-level School Quality Assurers, Prof Mkenda said the officers play a critical role in translating national education policies into action at the grassroots level.
“School Quality Assurers are key implementers of education reforms. They must understand the policies thoroughly and support their effective execution, particularly in areas of compulsory education and competency-based learning,” he said.
The minister stressed that quality assurers should promptly report challenges facing schools—including shortages of classrooms, teaching and learning materials, and other infrastructure gaps—to District Executive Directors and District Commissioners to allow timely corrective measures.
“Accurate and timely reporting of challenges enables decision-makers at the local government level to act quickly and prevent learning disruptions,” he noted.
Addressing ongoing reforms, Prof Mkenda announced that beginning with the 2027/2028 academic year, primary education will be reduced from seven to six years, while compulsory education will cover ten years, from Standard One to Form Four.
“These changes will result in a temporary double cohort, where Standard Seven pupils under the old system and Standard Six pupils under the new system will join Form One at the same time. This is a transitional phase, after which the system will stabilise into a single cohort,” he explained.
On technical and vocational education, the minister acknowledged increased government investment but said challenges remain, including shortages of workshops, equipment and qualified teachers.
He urged local government authorities to prioritise education funding in their budgets to avoid school closures caused by lack of basic facilities.
“The government is investing heavily in technical education, but councils must plan and allocate resources carefully to ensure schools operate effectively,” he said.
Meanwhile, the Assistant Director of School Quality Assurance, Monica Mpululu, said the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology has strengthened collaboration with School Quality Assurers nationwide to enhance supervision and accountability.
“The ministry has continued to support School Quality Assurers by providing key resources, including funds and working tools, which have significantly improved monitoring and evaluation of schools across the country,” she said.
Ms Mpululu emphasised that cooperation among education stakeholders is essential for the success of the sector, noting that current progress reflects collective efforts to improve the quality of education for national development.
