Government has intensified its commitment to strengthening science education across the country by allocating TZS 13.97 billion for the procurement and distribution of laboratory equipment to 672 secondary schools, with the aim of improving practical learning and addressing long-standing shortages in science subjects.
The announcement was made in Parliament on April 23, 2026 by the Deputy Minister in the Prime Minister’s Office – Regional Administration and Local Government (Education), Dr. Festo Dugange, who was responding on behalf of the Minister of State, PMO-RALG.
He was replying to a question from Special Seats MP Mwantatu Mbarak Khamis, who sought to know the government’s strategy for addressing shortages of laboratory facilities in secondary schools.
Dr. Dugange said the government has already spent TZS 3.51 billion in the 2025/26 financial year to procure and distribute laboratory chemicals and equipment to 231 secondary schools as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen science education at school level.
He added that the government is currently finalizing procurement worth TZS 13.97 billion, which will benefit 672 additional secondary schools across the country.
The initiative is expected to significantly improve access to laboratory materials and enhance students’ ability to conduct science experiments in subjects such as chemistry, physics, and biology.
Dr. Dugange explained that this investment is part of a wider government strategy to improve the quality of education and equip students with practical skills required in a modern, science and technology-driven economy.
He further noted that the government has prioritized the construction of 26 regional science secondary schools, each built at an average cost of about TZS 4.6 billion.
These schools are fully equipped with modern laboratories and supported by qualified specialists to ensure effective teaching and learning of science subjects.
According to him, the schools are designed to serve as centres of excellence, particularly in regions where students previously faced challenges accessing properly equipped science facilities.
The Deputy Minister also outlined additional measures, including completing unfinished laboratories, constructing new ones where necessary, and ensuring timely supply of equipment and technical personnel to schools.
He said a broader national programme aimed at improving science and vocational education infrastructure is in its final stages of preparation, with a strong focus on improving learning environments and strengthening students’ competence in science and technology.
The Government emphasized that these investments are intended to ensure equal access to quality science education for all students while building a strong foundation for Tanzania’s future workforce in innovation, engineering, and technology sectors.
