The assessment of Quota system on access and academic performance for girls in Tanzania ordinary secondary schools

The aim of this study was to assess the contribution of quota system on access and academic performance for girls in Tanzania ordinary secondary schools. The study was conducted in Iringa region.it covered only three districts; two schools from Iringa urban and rural Mufindi.it was conducted in four secondary schools; two schools from urban districts, which was Lugalo and Mawelewele. Two schools from rural districts that were Ilula and Kibao from Kilolo Mufindi respectively. There were 385 respondents, out of whom four were heads of schools, sixteen were classroom teachers and 365 were students (girls). Data were collected using observation, interview and documentary evidence.it was revealed that the use of quota system contributed to access to secondary education for the girls who performed low in their PSLE. The findings revealed that the use of quota system contributed to low academic performance for girls in their form II and IV examination in comparing those enrolled through non-quota system. It was also revealed that there were no any academic intervention programs for girls enrolled under the quota system. The following conclusions were drawn. Firstly, the quota system has enabled more girls, who scored even much low cut off points in their PSLE, to have to access to secondary education in ordinary schools. Secondly, the lowest cut- off points had a negative impact on academic performance for girls as high percentage of them got division IV and failure. Thirdly, lack of academic intervention programmes made the quota system unbeneficial as it was demonstrated by large number of girls who got division IV and failure. It was also recommended that the Government should stipulate clearly the means of assisting girls who are enrolled under the quota system.it was recommended that girls should know their PSLE mean score so that they can put more efforts in their studies. It was also recommended that the government should construct hostels for girls especially in the rural secondary schools.