DAR — The Open University of Tanzania (OUT), through the UNESCO Chair in Teacher Education and Curriculum, has introduced a new training program known as “Competency-Based Digital Skills Training for STEM Teachers.”
The program is designed to equip Science and Mathematics teachers with modern digital tools and innovative teaching strategies to improve student learning.
The launch event, held virtually via Zoom on October 15, 2025, brought together 30 STEM teachers from nine secondary schools within the Iringa District Council. It also included representatives from the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology (MoEST), PO-RALG, the Iringa District Education Office, and several school heads.
Project Support and Partnerships
According to Project Leader Dr. Edephonce Nfuka, the training is funded by the Global Partnership for Education – Knowledge and Innovation Exchange (GPE-KIX) through Canada’s International Development Research Centre (IDRC). The initiative is implemented in collaboration with partner institutions in Nigeria, Bhutan, and India.
Dr. Nfuka noted that this new module builds upon the earlier Connected Learning for STEM (CL4STEM) project (2021–2024). The updated program now places stronger emphasis on:
- Competency-based digital skills
- Ethical and responsible use of AI
- Long-term sustainability through a Training of Trainers (ToT) approach
Leaders’ and Officials’ Remarks
Prof. Elifas Bisanda, who chairs the UNESCO Chair, praised the OUT team for their dedication and encouraged teachers to adopt innovative instructional methods.
Mr. Ohadi Nosa, Head of Nyerere High School, revealed plans to expand the training to all 53 schools in the district by 2026, citing promising results from previous initiatives.
MoEST representatives Mr. Musa Mnyeti and Mr. Sitta Peter Ndamayape (representing the District Education Officer) applauded the program, assuring participants of government support and highlighting its alignment with Tanzania’s education and digital transformation ambitions.
The launch represents a significant step toward enhancing teacher professionalism and driving forward Tanzania’s goal of providing inclusive, technology-centered education for all.
