Navigating Tanzania’s Education Maze From Form Four to Future Careers: A Journey of Choices and Challenges

By Adonis Byemelwa

Amidst the euphoria following last year's stellar Form Four exam results, the past two weeks have unfolded as a frenzied scramble for every parent. With each passing day, the pressure mounts as families strive to secure coveted spots for their children in the next phase of education.

This pivotal moment marks not just a transition but a defining step toward shaping their futures. Amidst the whirlwind of applications and decisions, parents navigate a landscape fraught with anticipation and determination, fueled by the promise of brighter opportunities for their offspring.

The quest for educational advancement mirrors a societal aspiration for progress and success, underscoring the profound impact of these decisions on individual lives and collective aspirations alike.

In Tanzania's education system, the crucial step of choosing subjects for students who have completed Form Four is paramount. The government allows a 21-day window for students to change their subject combinations, after which no further changes are permitted.

Deputy Secretary-General of the President's Office, Regional Administration and Local Government (PO-RALG), Dr. Charles Msonde, previously stated that the change window would begin on April 6, 2023.

Only seven percent of candidates achieved Division One in the 2023 exams, highlighting the importance of comprehensive guidance and advice for students during subject selection.

Students need to understand their abilities, talents, and aspirations before making these critical decisions. As Dr. John Dewey famously said, "Education is not preparation for life; education is life itself."

For those opting for technical colleges, the choice of subjects tends to be straightforward as practical experience often guides their decisions. However, for Form Five students aiming for university, the challenge of selecting subjects becomes more complex.

Many students who excelled in Form Four, finding every subject option seemingly viable, often grapple with the dilemma of choosing the right path forward. Peer influence and societal expectations further complicate their choices.

Families where parents lack formal education often find themselves at a loss when advising their children on subject choices. Discovering that the government also assigns students to schools based on their exam performance adds another layer of complexity.

Unlike in the past, where failing math might have barred a student from pursuing science subjects, today's system allows more flexibility.

 It's not uncommon for a student with a low grade in Mathematics to excel in subjects like Chemistry, Biology, and Geography (CBG) and succeed in Form Six, with Mathematics taking a secondary role.

Changing subjects mid-school year requires significant effort, as many students risk committing to subjects they may struggle with in the future. This highlights the need for psychological counseling departments in every school.

Some private schools go a step further by involving paternities in subject selection through consultations with teachers, ensuring mutual agreement on the chosen path. This method helps alleviate confusion and blame between teachers and parents.

In developed countries like Finland, educational systems emphasize early guidance for students to discover and develop their talents. Parents and guardians play a crucial role in guiding their children toward suitable subject choices, collaborating closely with educators and educational counselors.

In the UK, for example, parents are actively involved in the process of choosing subjects and schools for their children. They attend advisory meetings with teachers to gain comprehensive insights into their children's progress and talents.

Professor Linda Darling-Hammond, an education expert in the United States, stresses the importance of teachers possessing the skills and understanding to guide students effectively. "Teachers must be able to recognize students' talents and help them nurture them," she asserts.

Beyond parents and teachers, involving external professionals such as educational psychologists and career counselors is crucial. These experts provide professional guidance on the job market and its requirements, assisting students in making more informed decisions about their subjects.

In the US, students have the opportunity to consult with career professionals and attend academic guidance workshops, enhancing their understanding of future career paths.

Choosing subjects is more than just selecting courses; it's about shaping a child's future. Providing adequate guidance ensures students make informed decisions and achieve their dreams.

As Dr. Msonde emphasized, "Students who miss the opportunity to make changes will be stuck with their initial choices." Early guidance is therefore crucial in avoiding future regrets.

Thus, the subject selection process is critical for students and requires close cooperation among students, parents, teachers, and educational professionals. By ensuring students receive sufficient guidance, we can help them make the right decisions and achieve their aspirations.

Education systems should be inclusive and provide equal opportunities for all students to achieve their goals and have a bright future. "Education is the key to life," Dewey once said, and this key must be used wisely by providing adequate guidance and advice to students.

In recent months, parents like Esther Ashery, whose children Junior Gabagambi from Alpha Secondary School and Anastela Rweikiza from Kondoa Girls, have expressed concern over the difficulty of changing subject combinations.

Junior, with excellent grades in many subjects, faces peer pressure to pursue EGM despite being deemed suitable for ECA by the school administration, sparking controversy.

The process of choosing subjects continues to be a point of contention among parents and students, as highlighted by recent social media posts. Assistant education coordinators have acknowledged these concerns and are working to address them.

Maxmillan Modest, an Education Officer at the PO-RALG, noted the importance of addressing grievances raised by students and parents through effective communication and resolution.

The new subject groups set to commence in July 2024 include Social Sciences, Languages, Business Studies, Sciences, Sports, Arts, and Religious Education.

The subject change process ran from March 20, 2024, to April 30, 2024, urging students, parents, and guardians to seek professional academic advice before making any changes.

"I urge students, parents, and guardians to use this time effectively to avoid challenges that may arise after the results of the subject selection for Form Five and college admissions are announced," said Mohammed Mchengerwa, Minister of State in the President's Office, Regional Administration and Local Government (PO-RALG).
He added, "It is essential to adhere to the given time frame for adjustments to ensure a smooth school and college assignment schedule."

It is crucial for universities to periodically review and improve their programs to meet job market demands efficiently and avoid misallocation of resources. Instances, where certain departments teach only a handful of students in postgraduate programs, raise questions about initial assessments before launching courses at the university in question.

In developed countries, universities succeed by conducting thorough investigations and making regular curriculum adjustments to ensure programs meet job market demands and efficiently utilize resources. This proactive approach not only enhances graduates' employability but also optimizes educational investments.

By staying attuned to industry needs and continually refining their offerings, universities empower students with the precise skills demanded by the workforce. This adaptability not only future-proofs graduates' careers but also catalyzes economic growth and fosters innovation globally.
Dr. Charles Msonde's advocacy highlights the urgency, emphasizing the role of education in shaping market-ready professionals.

Meanwhile, Mchengerwa and educationists’ insight into parents guiding their children's educational choices aligns perfectly with meeting job market demands. Together, these efforts ensure a seamless transition from education to employment, forging a path where every student is equipped to thrive in the evolving professional landscape.