Parents Preferences for Private Secondary Schools in Tanzania: What are the Perceptions and Motives for their Choices?

Abstract

This study examines parents’ school preferences and choice for their secondary school children in Tanzania. Specifically, the study illuminiates parents perceptions about public and private schools in education provision and factors for preferences for private secondary regardless of fee-free policy in Tanzania public schools. The qualitative approach was employed and interviews were conducted with ten parents with children enrolled in private secondary schools. Data were analyzed thematically. Different perceptions regarding private and public schools education emerged surrounding issues of quality of education, school environment, and teachers’ motivation and commitment to work. Specific qualities which attracted parents enrolling their children in private schools were small class sizes and close monitoring of the students, adequate teaching and learning resources, strong emphasis on students' discipline and religion education, and presence of adequate and competent teachers. Parent's income was however revealed to mediate these factors. Improving the overall quality of public secondary schools and promoting quality education for all children is recommended.