ONE thing worth noting, which many might not be aware of, is that the world is changing rapidly, with technology playing an increasingly central role in every aspect of our lives, including education.

As the world embraces the digital age, it is crucial that teachers are equipped with the necessary tools and skills to stay ahead, ensuring they can provide the best possible learning experiences for their students.

Technology has introduced interactive learning tools such as educational apps, virtual labs, and simulations. The tools make learning more engaging and hands-on, helping students better understand complex subjects through visualization and experimentation.

Recently, HakiElimu launched a pilot project, financed by the government of Finland that aimed at developing professional teachers' capabilities in a digital environment using virtual reality (VR). 

The initiative is part of a collaborative effort between Häme University of Applied Sciences (HAMK) and 3D Bear Oy, with a strong commitment to making the project a reality.

HAMK is leading another initiative, the TVET@WORK project, where the Vocational Education and Training Authority (VETA), 3D Bear, and HakiElimu are key partners.

Funded by the European Union (EU), the project facilitates teachers training as well as providing essential equipment, such as VR tools, for the Mwanza Teachers Training College (MVTTC).

Godfrey Boniventura, Head of Programmes at HakiElimu, highlighted that the project aims to transform teaching and learning in Tanzania's education system through modern simulation technologies.

“We appreciate the government of Finland for providing financial support for this innovation. The kick-off of this project and its implementation over the next two years marks a pioneering effort to integrate cutting-edge technology into classrooms, enhancing the teaching and learning process,” he said.

Boniventura added: “Though I’m not an expert in VR, after viewing several documentaries on YouTube and experiencing 3D Bear's demonstrations during the project induction, I now believe that adopting Virtual Reality will offer our teachers an interactive, engaging, and highly effective learning environment.”

He stressed that it’s high time Tanzania embraces Virtual Reality and other technological solutions to foster creativity, critical thinking, and address skills gaps in the country. 

Boniventura also emphasized the importance of the pilot project’s successful implementation to measure its effectiveness and relevance within the Tanzanian context. 

“Any positive outcomes will serve as strong evidence to attract stakeholders to support the scaling of this innovation across more educational institutions, benefiting many Tanzanian learners,” he noted.

Dr Bakari Silima, Executive Director of VETA Zanzibar, expressed excitement about collaborating with 3D Bear, a leading Finnish educational technology company. 

“We are also thrilled to work with Häme University of Applied Sciences, a community dedicated to making a difference. Our goal is to transform vocational training centres into more interactive, practical environments while reducing workshop costs," said Dr Silima.

He said the collaboration focuses on developing trainers' capacity to use augmented and virtual reality (AR/VR) learning environments and provide trainees with access to these immersive learning tools. The project also aims to align AR/VR learning environments with labour market demands and conduct joint research on their effectiveness.

Dr Silima explained that digitalizing learning content in three-dimensional technology, alongside the use of ICT infrastructure, will enable instructors to train numerous students simultaneously across different locations. Recorded class sessions or developed simulation environments can also be accessed by trainees at any time, promoting flexible learning.

“The advent of VR and AR in education has ushered in a new era of immersive learning, allowing students to explore the world without leaving the classroom,” he said adding the technologies provide interactive environments that engage students, improve knowledge retention, and enhance vocational training at its centres.

VETA Dircetor, Abdallah Ngodu reiterated the government's commitment to providing equitable and quality vocational training across Tanzania. He noted that the on-going efforts to construct 65 new training centres, bringing the total to 145 nationwide, aim to ensure that every district has access to vocational education.

“It’s exciting to note that the project we are celebrating today will benefit children, young people, and adults alike through XR-based learning content. Additionally, it will provide valuable training for teachers in various vocational fields. VETA remains fully committed to supporting these initiatives and is eager to collaborate in achieving our shared goal of delivering quality vocational education,” Ngodu stated.

“Our doors are always open, and we look forward to working together to build a brighter future for our country and the world, making it a better place for all to live,” he affirmed. “Together, we can equip our teachers and students with the modern skills and knowledge required in today’s labor market. Let’s stay focused on creating opportunities and making a lasting, positive impact for future generations.”