As we wrap up the year, our families across Tanzania celebrate a new milestone. Our children, these bright Grade 7 leavers, are moving on to Form One. And what a generation they are! Generation Alpha—the iPad, YouTube, and Google generation! 

They’re sharp and confident, and sometimes, to be honest, they know more than we do. But are we really preparing them for the 21st century, or are we pushing them towards grades without considering the skills they need?

As our kids are home enjoying a break, some have already started pre-secondary school programmes, picking up skills in public speaking, debating, computers, or even life skills like farming and carpentry. 

Others, however, are simply at home, “chilling,” as they say. And come January, all these kids will meet in Form One, but they’ll come with very different experiences. Those who have been investing in life skills will have an edge. And that’s a lesson for all of us.

In Tanzania, we’ve all been conditioned to believe in one thing: get those As, and everything will work out. But here’s a hard truth – the world is changing and doesn’t just need straight-A students. It needs problem-solvers, creators, and thinkers! Today’s job market is looking for skills like critical thinking, creativity, adaptability, and collaboration – not just the ability to memorise facts for exams.

READ MORE: Education Policy in Tanzania: Why We’re Producing Unemployable Graduates

Let’s be real; many private schools are churning out “cramming experts.” Kids are taught to memorise just enough to pass exams, then forget everything by next semester! We’re creating “certified parrots,” not innovators. 

Our education system trains kids to be grade chasers, not game changers. As one teacher joked, “Our kids are great at remembering but terrible at applying.” The world isn’t looking for walking encyclopedias; it’s looking for minds that can think independently.

Parents, be present

And this one is for the parents. I know we are all busy. Hustling for the family, chasing deadlines, and paying the bills. But as they say, “You can’t leave the entire job to the teachers.” If we want to raise a generation that’s ready for the future, we need to be involved. 

You don’t need a master’s degree to teach your child practical life skills. Teach them how to make ugali, fix a bicycle, or even open a bank account. And please, take time to ask them what they want to be – not just in terms of careers, but as people.

If possible, use this break wisely. Enrol them in programmes that build skills beyond the classroom. Public speaking, cooking, basic coding, even a short farming course! These are the real-life skills that build resilience, creativity, and self-confidence.

READ MORE: A Seat at the Table: Representing Tanzanian Youth at the Global Gateway in Brussels

The job market is moving quickly. Jobs we knew ten years ago are being replaced by technology. Employers want more than a certificate; they want skills. Yet, we have a system that often emphasises book knowledge at the expense of practical know-how. You’ll hear it from employers: “We’re looking for workers, not just people with certificates!

If Tanzania is to compete globally, we need to start equipping our kids with skills for the digital age. Our children should be able to solve problems, work with others, think critically, and create. Other countries are already moving forward with this. If we’re not careful, we’ll be left behind. Or, as the saying goes, “If you think education is expensive, try ignorance.”

Policy changes

Education reform can’t be just a buzzword. We need a curriculum that emphasizes creativity, critical thinking, and real-world skills. Let’s stop churning out exam machines and start creating thinkers and innovators. Our kids should be able to question things, think outside the box, and create solutions.

Imagine a curriculum that doesn’t just ask, “What is the capital of France?” but also, “How can we improve our local communities?” Let’s challenge our kids to use their education to solve real problems, not just answer exam questions. Schools need to be places that ignite curiosity, not just prepare for exams.

So, as we enter the new school year, let’s embrace a new mindset. Let’s invest in skills, not just grades. Let’s make sure our children are prepared for school and life. Tanzania deserves a generation that can think, innovate, and lead.

READ MORE: Investing in Tanzania’s Youth: The Foundation for Lasting Peace

As Proverbs 22:6 says, “Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old, he will not depart from it.” This training is more than grades; it’s giving them the tools to thrive in an ever-changing world. We must set them up for more than just academic success. Let’s raise a generation of problem-solvers and dream-chasers.

So, to all parents, policymakers, and educators: Let’s invest in our children’s futures. Let’s ensure they are equipped with skills for the 21st century. Let’s set them up to be good students, great thinkers, doers, and leaders. The world is waiting for them—let’s ensure Tanzania doesn’t remain behind.

Annastazia Rugaba is the Director for Advocacy and Engagement at Twaweza East Africa. She can be reached at arugaba@twaweza.org or on X as @annarugaba. These are the writer’s own opinions and do not necessarily reflect the viewpoints of The Chanzo. Do you want to publish in this space? Contact our editors at editor@thechanzo.com for further inquiries.