Reflecting on ICT growth after 62 years of Zanzibar Revolution

ZANZIBAR: IN today’s rapidly changing world, technology has become a central pillar of development and an inseparable part of daily human life.

From education and health to business and communication, advances in Information and Communication Technology (ICT) continue to transform societies, redefine opportunities and shape the future.

As Zanzibar marks 62 years since the 1964 Revolution, the steady growth of ICT stands out as one of the most significant indicators of progress on the islands.

Over the decades, Zanzibar has evolved from a society largely dependent on traditional systems to one increasingly driven by digital solutions.

This transformation has been particularly evident in the education sector, where technology is reshaping how students learn, teachers teach and schools operate.

Technology refers to the application of scientific knowledge, innovation and human creativity in the development and use of tools, systems and devices aimed at simplifying work and improving quality of life.

In education, this includes the use of computers, smartphones, the internet, digital laboratories and educational software, tools that are now gradually becoming part of everyday learning in Zanzibar’s schools.

Transforming learning through technology

The integration of technology into education has brought tangible benefits for students.

Visual learning tools such as instructional videos, diagrams and audio explanations have significantly improved students’ understanding of complex subjects.

Concepts that were once difficult to grasp through textbooks alone are now easier to comprehend through interactive and multimedia content.

Technology has also expanded access to knowledge.

Through the internet, students can explore educational resources from across the world, conduct research and broaden their academic horizons beyond the classroom.

This exposure helps nurture curiosity, independent learning and critical thinking. Moreover, digital learning equips students with modern skills required in today’s job market.

Computer literacy, familiarity with software applications and confidence in using digital devices have become essential qualifications in many professions.

Early exposure to technology therefore prepares students to compete effectively in a globalised and technology-driven economy.

Beyond academics, technology encourages creativity and problem solving.

Students can design projects, analyse data and develop innovative solutions using digital tools, fostering a mindset of innovation that is vital for national development.

Preparing children for a digital future

Zanzibar President and Chairman of the Revolutionary Council, Dr Hussein Ali Mwinyi, has repeatedly emphasised the importance of preparing children for technological advancement from an early age.

Speaking during the inauguration of the three-storey Muungano Primary School in the Urban West Region as part of the 62nd Revolution celebrations, he said the government is committed to equipping children with technological skills early enough to cope with current and future global changes.

Dr Mwinyi noted that scientific and technological developments are progressing at an unprecedented pace, rapidly transforming lifestyles, employment patterns and education systems.

As such, he said, Zanzibar must adopt a deliberate strategy to prepare its human resources from the foundational stages of education.

“Zanzibar is moving in the right direction. We have already started introducing our children to global technology while they are still in primary schools,” he said.

He described investment in technology-based education as a long-term strategy aimed at sustainable national development, stressing that the generation being prepared today will be responsible for driving the country’s economy, innovation and overall progress in the years ahead.

“Providing children with a strong technological foundation is essential for building a competitive and self-reliant nation in the modern world,” Dr Mwinyi said.

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Smart classes and inclusive education

The introduction of smart classrooms has added new momentum to Zanzibar’s education reforms.

Lessons delivered through digital content, educational games, videos and virtual laboratories have increased students’ motivation and participation.

These interactive methods cater to different learning styles, making education more inclusive and effective. Technology-based learning also plays a key role in reducing the digital divide.

By providing students from less privileged families and remote areas with access to digital tools at school, Zanzibar is promoting educational equity and ensuring equal opportunities in future employment markets.

Importantly, early technology education also instils responsible digital behaviour.

By teaching online safety, disciplined use of digital devices and protection of personal information, schools help students develop ethical and responsible habits, an essential safeguard in the age of social media and digital exposure.

So far, as we celebrate the 62nd anniversary of the 1964 revolution, Zanzibar has one ‘AI smart board’ or classroom at Tumekuja School in Unguja and plans are underway to have more twenty AI Smart boards in 20 schools this year.

According to the available data, there are several ICT projects in Zanzibar schools including: ZIQUE Project for the installation of four content servers to have 100 schools connected to fibre network; and Digital Tanzania Project (DTP) for 74 School Connectivity (42 in Unguja and 32 in Pemba)- on going project.

Zanzibar Digital Education Project (ZDEP)- Learning Management System (LMS): Development and deployment initiated. A total of 858 Laptops supplied for 33 e-Library Rooms (26 laptops per room); provision of furniture, 85- inch smartboards, training trolleys and network devices in each lab and capacity-building programmes.

Mambo TEHAMA Project: It deals with renovation of 20 Computer Rooms; deployment of 800 PCs for 20 Computer Labs (40 PCs per lab); installation of 85-inch smartboards, full network equipment and Capacity-building training.

YAS Internet Connectivity Initiative: 53 Schools connected (32 Unguja, 21 Pemba), while Airtel Smart Wasomi Project is for Zero Rated Learning Platform enabled for 39 Schools.

Vodacom Internet Connectivity Project: 100 Schools to be connected to internet services and Establishment of 50 Computer Labs.

Education as a national priority

President Mwinyi reaffirmed that education remains the backbone of national development and will continue to receive top government priority.

He announced that in the upcoming budget, more than one trillion Tanzanian shillings is expected to be allocated to the education sector.

The funds will be used to improve educational infrastructure, including the construction of multi-storey schools, procurement of modern teaching and learning equipment and expansion of ICT use across primary and secondary schools in both Unguja and Pemba.

He also reiterated his commitment to eliminating double shifts in schools, stating that the government is accelerating the construction of new school buildings to ensure all students attend a single morning session.

In addition, the government plans to recruit more teachers, particularly in science and mathematics, to strengthen academic performance and develop future professionals.

Digital transformation in teaching The Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Education and Vocational Training, Mr Khamis Abdalla Said, said the ministry is transitioning towards digital teaching systems, making it essential for teachers to embrace technology in their work.

He revealed that the government is in the process of connecting all schools and education centres to the national fibre-optic backbone and acquiring large national servers to store educational content, ensuring students can access learning materials regardless of location.

He urged teachers to utilise their professional training and digital skills to transform education delivery and nurture student competence in line with global standards.

A digital legacy of the Revolution

As Zanzibar commemorates 62 years of the Revolution, the growth of ICT, particularly in education, reflects a broader vision of progress and empowerment.

Technology is no longer merely a learning aid but a powerful driver of innovation, creativity and development.

Through strong leadership, clear policy direction and sustained investment, the Eighth Phase Government has laid a solid foundation for building a knowledgeable, skilled and ethical generation capable of navigating the challenges of today and tomorrow.

In doing so, Zanzibar continues to honour the spirit of the Revolution, not only by celebrating the past, but by confidently shaping a digital future.