The cultural arts centre at tumaini university makumira in Tanzania: Educational research in action

Abstract

The Cultural Arts Centre (CAC) and the Department of Music at Tumaini University Makumira collaborated for a comprehensive project to improve the Tanzanian musical educational system reflecting the local cultural context. The problems with the present-day state of music education include a lack of teachers, resources, and opportunities. The five phases of this project include a pilot music programme at a local government school, the Uraki Secondary School, mapping study of traditional music in the area, field research to gather traditional music, formal and informal educational opportunities for the youth, and developing music curriculum resources. After years of continuous effort the results are many, showing that this project is an important step forward for the country. This project is ongoing and is expected to be expanded to other schools, create collaborative partnerships with other academic institutions, and ultimately advocate for changes in the national curriculum of Tanzania.