TANZANIA: IN communities across the country, the importance of maternal education is being increasingly recognised as a key driver for societal progress.
The effects of educating mothers ripple through generations, influencing not only their immediate families but the entire community.
Maternal education is defined as the educational attainment of mothers directly correlates with better outcomes for youth in terms of health, education and socio-economic opportunities.
Dr Maxmillian Nanyaro, a medical doctor and education specialist at N’kwgwaranga Hospital in Arusha region highlights the significant influence that maternal education has on children’s academic performance and overall well-being.
“Research consistently shows that children whose mothers have completed at least secondary education are more likely to achieve higher grades and continue their studies beyond primary school,” says Dr Nanyaro.
This effect is largely attributed to the increased likelihood of mothers fostering learning environments at home, setting educational goals for their children and being better equipped to support homework and school activities.
A recent report by the Tanzania Education Network (TEN/MET) underscores this point, revealing that children with educated mothers have a 30 per cent higher literacy rate compared to those whose mothers did not attend school. This finding underlines the need for strategic investments in female education as a long-term solution to improving the country’s overall education landscape.
The benefits of maternal education extend beyond academics. Dr Deogratius Mushi, a public health expert at Good Samaritan Cancer Hospital, explains that educated mothers are more likely to adopt healthier practices, such as proper nutrition, immunisation and early childhood care.
“An educated mother is empowered with knowledge that can significantly reduce child mortality rates and improve overall health outcomes,” he noted.
In one of the rural communities of Morogoro, a programme led by the NGO “Mothers Empowered” has shown promising results. By providing literacy classes to mothers, the community has observed a noticeable decline in preventable diseases among children, thanks to better hygiene practices and informed health decisions.
Sarah Ndege, a mother who graduated from the programme, shares, “Before attending these classes, I didn’t understand why regular checkups were important. Now, I not only take my children for medical visits but encourage other mothers to do the same.”
The current generation of youth is playing a pivotal role in promoting maternal education. Youth-led organizations, such as Tanzania Young Leaders Association (TYLA), are raising awareness about the importance of maternal literacy and organising workshops aimed at helping young mothers pursue their education while balancing family responsibilities.
One such youth leader, 24 years old activist Hamisi Abdallah, believes that empowering young mothers is essential for creating sustainable development. “When we help mothers continue their education, we are not just empowering individuals; we’re investing in the future of our communities,” he said.
Despite clear evidence of the benefits, significant barriers remain. Poverty, limited access to educational facilities and cultural norms that prioritise domestic responsibilities over education for women are major challenges.
According to a 2023 report by UNICEF Tanzania, only 40 per cent of women aged 20-24 completed secondary education, leaving a gap that needs urgent attention.
Organisations like Plan International are stepping in to bridge this divide by partnering with local governments to establish community learning centres that accommodate the unique needs of mothers.
These centres offer flexible schedules, on-site childcare and basic vocational training, creating an environment where mothers can learn without sacrificing their responsibilities at home.
Experts and advocates agree that for real change to occur, policies must prioritise maternal education as part of broader educational reforms.
Government investment, corporate sponsorships and international support all play a role in providing the necessary infrastructure and resources.
As Tanzania continues to make strides toward becoming a middle-income country, the importance of maternal education cannot be overstated. It is a critical component of nurturing a generation that is healthier, better educated and more capable of contributing to the nation’s growth.
The youth, inspired and equipped with knowledge, remain at the heart of this transformation, embodying both the promise and responsibility of advocating for a brighter future.
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An investment in educating mothers is an investment in the nation,” concludes Dr Mushi, emphasising that the return is not just measured in academic success but in the empowerment of generations to come
