UNICEF has announced plans to support the expansion and improvement of online public schools in Tanzania as part of efforts to strengthen digital learning and enable students to study independently using modern technology.
The commitment was made on May 13, 2026, when the United Nations Children’s Fund UNICEF Resident Representative, Ms. Elke Wisch, met with the Minister of State in the Prime Minister’s Office, Regional Administration and Local Government (PMO-RALG), Prof. Riziki Shemdoe, at Magogoni in Dar es Salaam.
Ms. Wisch said UNICEF, in collaboration with the Government of Tanzania, has already conducted an assessment of schools connected to the internet and identified areas that still need improvement.
She added that the organisation will continue working closely with the government to ensure that more schools are connected to reliable digital networks so that learners across the country can benefit from online education.
She explained that strengthening online public schools will help expand access to learning materials, improve the quality of education, and support students to learn at their own pace regardless of their location.
The initiative is also expected to reduce learning gaps between urban and rural schools by making digital resources more widely available.
Speaking during the meeting, Prof. Riziki Shemdoe welcomed the initiative and said the government will continue working with UNICEF to ensure effective implementation of online public schools across the country.
He noted that the use of digital technology in education is a key step in improving teaching and learning outcomes in Tanzania.
Prof. Shemdoe added that the government is committed to expanding digital classrooms and ensuring that schools are equipped with the necessary infrastructure to support online learning.
He said the initiative will complement ongoing efforts to improve the education sector and prepare students with skills needed in a digital economy.
He further noted that he is ready to support and participate in future launches of digital education systems once they are fully prepared for use by teachers and students, saying such innovations will help modernize the education system and improve efficiency in schools.
In addition, Prof. Shemdoe highlighted continued collaboration between PMO-RALG and the Ministry of Health in implementing the Universal Health Insurance programme.
He said efforts are ongoing to improve integration of information systems in health centres and district hospitals to enhance service delivery and data sharing.
The discussions between UNICEF and the government also covered key social sectors, including education, nutrition, health, child protection, water, and sanitation.
Both sides agreed to strengthen cooperation in improving essential services and ensuring better outcomes for children and communities across Tanzania.
