An analysis of the factors contributing to children’s low access to pre-primary education in Tanzania: a case study of Bagamoyo district, Coast region

This study examined the factors that contribute to children’s low access to pre-primary education in Tanzania. The objectives were: studying the family background factors; school based factors; and individual child factors contributing to children’s low access to pre-primary education. The study was conducted in six public pre-primary schools in Bagamoyo district. The sample constituted a total of 131 respondents composing of pupils, non- school goers, parents and head teachers, class teacher. It also included ward education Officers and District Educational Officer. The study employed a case study design. Data were collected through, questionnaire, interviews, documentary analysis and observation. The study found out that children’s low access to pre-primary education was contributed by: poor family background, such as low incomes, broken families and lack of awareness on importance of pre-primary education, it was also revealed that costs of schooling and walking distances to and from school, health and disability among children further contributed to children’s low access. Lastly, stakeholders’ roles suggested in promoting children’s access to pre- primary education included sensitizing public about the importance pre- primary education, and providing funds to pre-primary schools to build their enrolment capacities. The study recommended that in order to improve children’s access to pre-primary education there should be awareness raising campaigns on the importance of pre-primary education to child development and poverty reduction among communities.