Prime Minister Dr Mwigulu Nchemba has hailed the contribution of private schools to Tanzania’s education sector, saying their role has been instrumental in improving learning standards, nurturing talent and supporting the country’s broader development agenda.
Speaking during the 11th graduation ceremony for Year 11 (IGCSE) students at Feza International School in Salasala, Dar es Salaam, on Friday, Dr Nchemba said the government would continue strengthening partnerships with private education providers as part of efforts to build a knowledgeable, skilled and ethical workforce.
The Prime Minister said the government of President Samia Suluhu Hassan recognises the strategic role played by private institutions in complementing public investments in education.
“It is impossible to speak about the achievements recorded in the education sector without acknowledging the contribution of private schools, particularly Feza. The partnership between the government and private institutions has been critical in expanding access to quality education and raising standards,” he said.
Dr Nchemba described Feza as one of the institutions that have helped shape educational reforms in Tanzania by setting high academic standards and promoting excellence that is recognised both locally and internationally.
According to him, the school has emerged as a benchmark for quality education and has contributed significantly to the transformation of the country’s learning environment.
“Many of the positive changes we see today in the education sector have been inspired by institutions that continuously strive for excellence. Feza has been among those leading that journey,” he said.
The Prime Minister also praised the institution for attracting students from different parts of the world, saying the diversity of its student population reflects the confidence international communities have in the quality of education offered in Tanzania.
Students from countries including India, Turkey, China, the United Arab Emirates, Lebanon, Somalia and the United States are among those enrolled at Feza schools.
He said such international appeal not only enhances cultural exchange but also strengthens Tanzania’s position as an emerging destination for quality education in the region.
At the same time, Dr Nchemba said the government remains committed to implementing reforms aimed at ensuring the country’s education system keeps pace with global changes, particularly in science, technology and innovation.
He cited the implementation of the Education and Training Policy 2014 (2023 Edition) as one of the key reforms designed to improve access to quality education while extending compulsory education to ten years.
“The world is changing rapidly and education systems must evolve accordingly. These reforms are intended to prepare Tanzanian youth for the opportunities and challenges of a modern, knowledge-driven economy,” he said.
The Prime Minister also commended Feza for its community development initiatives, including supporting underprivileged students, improving infrastructure in public schools and funding water projects in underserved communities.
He said such interventions demonstrate how educational institutions can contribute beyond the classroom by addressing broader social and development challenges.
Dr Nchemba underscored the importance of investing in human capital, describing it as the most valuable asset any nation can possess.
“No country has achieved sustainable development without investing in its people. A nation may lack many natural resources, but if it has educated, skilled and disciplined citizens, it has the foundation for long-term prosperity,” he said.
Addressing the graduates, he urged them to uphold discipline, integrity and a strong sense of responsibility as they progress to the next stage of their academic and professional journeys.
He encouraged them to use the knowledge and skills acquired at school to create positive change in society and to make productive use of digital platforms and social media.
“Your success will not be measured solely by examination results or certificates, but by the values you uphold, the decisions you make and the impact you have on your communities and the nation,” he said.
The ceremony brought together students, parents, teachers and education stakeholders in a celebration of academic achievement and the growing role of private institutions in advancing Tanzania’s education aspirations.
