TANGA Regional Administrative Secretary (RAS), Ms Pili Mnyema has emphasized on the importance of prioritising community understanding, especially in pursuit of properly raising children in the society.
“This is because when the community is well-informed, upbringing of children can align with the social values,” she said.
Ms Mnyema noted this when receiving members of the Child First Team, which is implementing the Integrated National Programme for Child Care, Development and Early Development (PJT-MMMAM) 2021/22- 2025/2026 .
“For example, when we were kids, if someone saw a neighbour’s child being engaged in something wrong, he/she would scold him, but that is no longer possible,” Ms Mnyema pointed out.
“While parents hold the primary duty for their children’s education, it’s crucial for the community to collaborate and guarantee that the child acquires proper education,” she further said.
Elaborating, she noted that due to busy schedules and financial constraints, parents rely heavily on teachers to oversee their children’s education, which in a way creates a loophole in proper upbringing of children.
Hence, it was critical to educate community members about their role in creating a conducive learning environment.
The team members were reassured that all council leaders will be cooperative, and it was emphasized that district leaders are the ones who are most connected to the people.
In 2021, the National Integrated Child Care, Development, and Early Development Programme was launched by Dr. Dorothy Gwajima, Minister of Social Development, Gender, Women, and Special Groups, representing President Samia Suluhu Hassan, in Dodoma.
The programme is being implemented by the Mtoto Kwanza team, the Early Childhood Development Network, Tanzania Early Childhood Development (TECDEM), Children in Crossfire (CIC), and Tanzania Press Clubs.