To:
The President of Tanzania,
The Ministry of Education, Science, and Technology,
The Members of Parliament,

Subject: A Proposal to Use Kiswahili as the Primary Language of Instruction and Improve Foreign Language Education

We, the undersigned, call upon the government to implement Kiswahili as the primary language of instruction in schools. At the same time, we propose enhancing the teaching of global languages such as English, French, Arabic, and Chinese as dedicated subjects, taught by qualified instructors.

The Case for Kiswahili
Mwalimu Julius Nyerere, the Father of our Nation, once said, “We must run while others walk.” This reflects the urgency of adopting educational policies that serve our people effectively. Education delivered in Kiswahili, a language spoken and understood by the majority, will break down barriers and ensure that all learners, regardless of background, can access and understand their lessons.

Nelson Mandela also reminds us:
"If you talk to a man in a language he understands, that goes to his head. If you talk to him in his language, that goes to his heart."

Currently, the reliance on English as the language of instruction often alienates learners, many of whom are not proficient in it. This has led to poor comprehension and hindered educational progress. Kiswahili offers an accessible, inclusive, and culturally relevant alternative that aligns with Tanzania’s identity and values.

Lessons from Other Nations
Countries that have prioritized their native languages in education demonstrate how this approach can support national development and international success. For instance:

1. Japan: Teaches in Japanese, supporting technological advancements and innovation.
2. Germany: Uses German as the medium of instruction and excels in industry and research.
3. South Korea: Educates students in Korean, ranking high in global educational and economic metrics.
4. Finland: Conducts education in Finnish or Swedish, producing consistently high-performing students globally.

These examples show that teaching in a native language fosters deeper understanding, critical thinking, and a sense of cultural pride without compromising global competitiveness.

Proposed Actions
To achieve these goals, we recommend the following:

• We acknowledge and appreciate Kiswahili as the current language of instruction in primary schools. However, we propose a comprehensive transition to Kiswahili as the medium of instruction across all levels of education. This move would ensure consistency, inclusivity, and the empowerment of learners through the use of a language deeply rooted in our culture and identity.
• Develop Language Programs: Invest in teaching English, French, Arabic, Chinese, and other global languages as distinct subjects. Ensure these subjects are taught by trained and competent teachers.
• Provide Teacher Training: Equip educators with the skills to teach effectively in Kiswahili and to deliver foreign language education to a high standard.
• Engage Communities: Work with parents, educators, and the private sector to build consensus and address any concerns related to the transition.
• Monitor Implementation: Establish systems to track progress, address challenges, and adjust the approach where necessary to ensure success.

Why It Matters
Adopting Kiswahili as the language of instruction will create a more equitable and effective education system. It will empower students to learn and grow in a language they understand, strengthen national unity, and uphold our cultural identity. At the same time, teaching other languages as subjects will equip students with the skills to engage in global discourse and opportunities.

This proposal is inspired by the vision of Mwalimu Julius Nyerere and reflects the aspirations of Tanzanians to build a future grounded in knowledge, pride, and inclusivity.

Signed:
The Citizens of Tanzania