The Current Status of Teachers and the Teaching Profession in Tanzania

Abstract

This paper examines the current status of teachers and the teaching sector in Tanzania. It draws on experiences of teachers, parents, and students in Dar es Salaam, Iringa and Mbeya regions. Informed by the qualitative inquiry, the paper is largely empirical in character. Data was sought through interviews and document search. Findings indicate that,
first, teachers and the teaching profession have low status today than during the colonial days and up to a few years after independence. Secondly, the generality of teaching view, second choosers view, and undesirable working and living conditions accounted for the
low status of teachers and the teaching profession. In conclusion, the status of teachers and the teaching profession is measured in terms of economic gains which have implications for social gains. Hence, the revival of the lost glory lies in the hands of the Government of Tanzania and, partners or stakeholders in the teaching sector.