The Tanzanian Education ministry has abolished boarding schools for nursery and lower primary pupils effective of March.
The ministry noted that the move would allow the learners to bond with their families, build values and participate in various community activities.
“It is not allowed to provide boarding services to pupils of nursery and Standard One except with a special permit that will be issued by the commissioner of education, after receiving an application from the relevant stakeholder,” Education commissioner Dr Lyabwene Mtahabwa said in a statement.
She said the directive should be implemented by the end of the first term, March 31.Dr Mtahabwa said keeping young children in school deprives them of the upbringing and development foundation made by families through their parents or guardians.
“It has been found that some schools have been receiving young pupils from nursery to Standard Four,” she said.
The ministry said it would be conducting impromptu checks, and any school found to be violating the directives would face disciplinary, legal, or cancellation of registration.
