As part of its ongoing commitment to improving the quality of English language education in Tanzanian secondary schools, AfrEd recently conducted a Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) activity under the English Communication (E-Comm) Project. Funded by the U.S. Embassy, the E-Comm Project aims to enhance teaching and learning outcomes by equipping English teachers with practical skills in Communicative Language Teaching (CLT) and the integration of digital tools into classroom instruction.
The project is being implemented across 13 secondary schools in Bagamoyo District, with a focus on shifting traditional teaching methods towards a more student-centered and interactive approach. Through training workshops and hands-on support, the E-Comm Project empowers teachers to create dynamic learning environments that promote communication, critical thinking, and digital literacy.
As part of the project’s learning and accountability framework, AfrEd conducted a Monitoring and Evaluation exercise to assess the implementation of CLT strategies and digital integration in classroom settings. The M&E process included school visits, classroom observations, and focus group discussions with both teachers and students in selected schools, including Mapinga, Kerege, Shushila, and Nzinga Secondary Schools.
The field visits provided valuable insights into how the training is being applied and its effect on both teaching practices and student engagement. It was encouraging to see teachers using participatory methods and integrating aspects of CLT, while students showed increased interest and confidence in learning English. However, the visits also revealed key areas that require additional support particularly in digital integration, as many schools still face significant challenges in accessing adequate ICT resources. Furthermore, students continue to face difficulties transitioning from Swahili-medium primary education to English-medium secondary education, which directly affects their ability to grasp and use the language confidently.
By gathering real-time feedback from both teachers and students, AfrEd is committed to strengthening the E-Comm Project’s impact and ensuring its relevance to the realities on the ground. The findings from this Monitoring and Evaluation activity will guide the development of future trainings, inform targeted support to schools, and ensure that the project continues to respond to the evolving needs of educators and learners. This adaptive and inclusive approach reflects AfrEd’s mission to deliver innovative and transformative education solutions that truly empower communities through improved teaching and learning.
