Assessment of the factors contributing to teacher retention in secondary schools in Tanzania: a case of selected schools in Kinondoni municipality

This study assessed the factors contributing to teacher retention in secondary schools in Tanzania, particularly selected schools in Kinondoni Municipality in Dar es Salaam region. Specifically, the study sought to examine the role played by heads of school in facilitating teacher retention and roles of the government in facilitating teachers‟ retention, to identify factors leading to teachers‟ attrition in Kinondoni Municipality and to investigate the challenges experienced by school heads and the government in promoting teachers retention Kinondoni Municipality. The study employed a qualitative approach using case study design. The sample was composed of 103 respondents. The schools were obtained from simple random sampling technique. Respondents were obtained through purposive and simple random sampling techniques. Data were collected through interviews focused group discussions and documentary review and were analyzed qualitatively using content analysis. Roles employed by the school heads and the government in promoting teacher retention involved provision of adequate salaries and annual salary adjustments, harmonising teachers working environment, provision of loans with low interests, building teachers‟ houses, introduction of remedial classes, provision of in-service training, proper reception of attending teachers needs, provision of bonuses and providing a fair promotions. On the other hand, the heads of schools and the government were challenged by inadequate funds, difficulties in satisfying teacher’s personal and professional needs, lack of administration skills, and competition from other schools in retaining their qualified and experienced teachers. The study recommends on improving school governance, transparency, developing an incentive schemes for teachers and the government to increase budget allocation to the MoEVT to improve teaching conditions. Hence, further studies should be conducted to determine the number of secondary school teachers recruited and the number of secondary school teachers retained by considering level of education, gender, marital status, age, area of specialization and teaching experience.