THE government has reaffirmed its commitment to recognizing and supporting the crucial role that teachers play in Tanzania’s development. As key producers of skilled professionals in vital sectors such as health, energy, science and technology, teachers remain at the core of national progress.

Speaking at the official opening of the Seventh Annual General Meeting of the Tanzania Teachers’ Union (CWT) in Dodoma yesterday, Deputy Prime Minister and Energy, Minister, Dr. Doto Biteko, underscored the government’s focus on enhancing teachers’ motivation, professionalism and ethical standards. The efforts aim to inspire diligence and a strong dedication to the nation’s interests.

“The success we see in the education sector today is largely due to our teachers. Beyond imparting knowledge, they are thought leaders and moral pillars of society,” he said.

Highlighting government achievements in education infrastructure, Dr. Biteko noted the construction of 62,685 classrooms for primary and secondary schools, the establishment of 1,031 new secondary schools, 1,580 new primary schools and 1,792 teachers’ houses across the country.

Between the 2020/21 and 2024/25 fiscal years, the government cleared salary arrears for 101,596 teachers and settled non-salary arrears for 156,556 public servants. Additionally, the minimum salary for public servants will rise to 500,000/- starting next month up from 370,000/-.

Dr. Biteko also pointed out the government’s ongoing teacher recruitment efforts, with 40,527 new teachers employed since 2021 to address shortages nationwide. He commended the ‘Samia Teachers Mobile Clinic’ initiative, which reached 48,380 teachers and helped resolve numerous workplace issues.

On the request for a single employer body to oversee all teacher affairs, Dr. Biteko confirmed that the government has received the proposal and will assess whether the current system requires restructuring to establish such an institution.

He further discussed the rollout of an improved curriculum aimed at enhancing education quality and empowering learners to become self-reliant after graduation. The government is committed to ensuring all teachers receive proper training to adapt to these educational reforms.

Before CWT leadership elections held during the meeting, Dr. Biteko urged delegates to exercise their voting rights responsibly, promoting respect, unity, justice, equality, and transparency.

“I urge all participants to uphold fairness and avoid division. Let us work together to build a strong and united teaching community,” he said.

Minister of State in the Prime Minister’s Office for Labour, Youth, Employment and Persons with Disabilities, Ridhiwani Kikwete, reiterated the government’s appreciation for teachers’ contributions and promised continued cooperation to support national development.

TTU President Leah Ulaya thanked the government and pledged the union’s ongoing partnership with the employer.

Acting Secretary General Joseph Misalaba expressed gratitude for government fulfillment of teachers’ entitlements, including promotions and arrears payments. He also highlighted recent pension improvements—from 33 to 40 percent—and called for further measures to support retired teachers who have faithfully served the nation.

The meeting also welcomed representatives from teachers’ unions in Rwanda, Burundi, South Africa and Namibia, fostering regional solidarity.