Only 2,212 children with albinism are enrolled at public schools, the Minister of Education and Vocational Training, Dr Shukuru Kawambwa informed Parliament.
Minister for Education and Vocational Training, Dr Shukuru Kawambwa
Dr Kawambwa was responding to questions posed by Special Seats legislator (CCM), Rebecca Mngodo who wanted to know the number of children with albinism enrolled at public schools countrywide.
Ms Mngodo deplored the low number of children with albinism enrolled at public schools, saying that government has not taken a proactive role in sensitising parents who hide these children at home instead of taking them to school.
“These children are considered misfits and dull, not eligible for education. What is the ministry doing to make sure that they learn conducive learning environments that include customised text books, spectacles and other learning aides?” Mngondo asked.
Dr Kawambwa said out of the total number, 142 are in nursery school, 1,337 are in primary school and 393 are in secondary school across the country. “Government in partnership with Under The Same Sun (UTSS) released guidelines on offering educational services to children with albinism and defective sight,” the minister pointed out.
By Mariam Said, Tanzania Daily News
