The use of Computers in Public and Private Primary Schools in Tanzania: A Digital Divide

Abstract

The existing scarcity of resources and challenges of getting reasonable education is necessitating communities to find new ways of tackling their problems. Education seems to be one of the best options to solve many of the problems facing communities. The collaboration of governments and primary sector in the provision of education has been of help in many countries across the world. The importance of the use of technology especially Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) in education system in today’s world is then unavoidable. This paper addresses the existing gap between Public and Private primary schools in Tanzania on the use of Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs), especially computers, in schools. The documentary review from various sources, and in specific Tanzanian Basic Education Statistics (BEST) reveals an inequality in the possession and use of computers among Public and private primary schools in Tanzania. In spite of the fact that the implementation of the use of ICT in schools is in phases, like infrastructures, curriculum and content, capacity building, procurement of hardware and software and some technical issues, efforts needs to be speeded up to make sure that the education system is inclusive. The primary education is the one that most of the citizens afford, and therefore should provide the necessary skill for citizens to compete in today’s changing economy. General Terms ICT adoption, e-inclusion