The effects of inter-governmental transfers of funds on the provision of quality public primary education: a case study of Kilosa district

The study aimed at examining the effects on inter-governmental transfers of funds on provision of quality public primary education in Kilosa district. The study threw analytical light on the extent to which financial resources from the Central Government and other sources flow to, and are used in the public primary education sector. The study was qualitative by nature with some elements of quantitative approach. Data were gathered through questionnaires, interviews and documentary reviews. The study revealed that, the Central Government contributes more than 90% of the total budget for the primary education sector in the District. Conversely, the District Council’s contribution is less than 10% of the budget. Paradoxically, whilst, the transferred funds are inadequate for meeting expenditure requirements, yet through virement the District Council uses the funds meant for primary education to meet the costs of administration and other sectors. Consequently, primary schools lack enough classrooms, textbooks, school furniture, and toilets which adversely affect the provision of quality primary education. The study recommended that there should be timely, predictable and adequate funding from the Central Government, Local Government and other financial sources in order to enhance provision of quality primary education sector.