THE Swedish government has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Tanzania’s education sector, calling for greater investment in early childhood education and the teaching profession.

These, it said, are critical building blocks for sustainable national development, democracy and social equity. Speaking during the Nobel Prize Teachers’ summit hub held in Dar es Salaam on Thursday, Swedish ambassador to Tanzania Charlotta Ozaki Macias, pointed to research showing its undeniable long-term benefits in children’s cognitive development, emotional wellbeing, and eventual participation as informed citizens.

The summit, part of the global Nobel Prize Teachers’ Initiative, gathered 50 passionate teachers from various parts in Dar es Salaam aims to provide a dynamic platform for Tanzanian teachers to exchange ideas, teaching practices and experiences inspired by the values and themes celebrated by the Nobel Prize. 

“Early childhood development isn’t just about health and nutrition—it’s also about giving young learners access to quality education from the very start. That’s where the real foundation is laid,” she explained.

The ambassador also underscored the role of teachers as champions of democracy, emphasising how schools serve as vital spaces for cultivating fairness, inclusivity, and equal opportunity for all children.

“Democracy isn’t just a political concept—it must be lived daily, even on the school playground, where fairness and shared responsibility are learned,” she said. “The more we invest in young learners and in the teachers who guide them, the more inclusive, prosperous, and democratic our societies will become,” Ambassador Macias said.

She said by empowering educators with practical strategies that foster creativity, inclusion, and critical thinking, the initiative seeks to transform classrooms into vibrant spaces of learning. 

Moreover, the summit designed to nurture a strong network of motivated and connected teachers across Tanzania, equipping them to become local change-makers who drive positive educational and social impact in their communities.

It serves as a platform where educators engage with Nobel Laureates who share insights on innovation, resilience and the values essential to creating a better world. Neema Kirogo, a mathematics teacher and quality assurance officer from Ilala Municipal Council, shared her inspiring experience attending the Nobel Prize Teachers’ Summit in Stockholm this past March. 

She described how the summit provided her with a unique opportunity to engage with fellow educators from around the world and Nobel Laureates who have made significant contributions to science, peace and literature.

“Attending the summit was a transformative experience,” Kirogo said. “I learned innovative teaching methods and gained fresh perspectives on how education can be a powerful tool for change. The opportunity to hear directly from Nobel Laureates motivated me to bring those lessons back home and inspire my students to reach for excellence.” Kirogo also praised the initiative for creating a strong network of committed teachers who can support each other in advancing education quality across Tanzania.