Analysis of Teachers’ Perception on the Language of Instructions in The Tanzanian Schooling System: Empirical Evidences from Mbeya City.

This study focused on analyzing teachers’ perception on the issues related to language of instructions. The study employed qualitative approach, with data collected through interviews and documentary review. The data were analyzed through thematic analysis while participants were the teachers and school quality assurers. The findings include the following ……..First, majority of teachers understand that Kiswahili, English, other foreign languages and sign language are taught as subjects at different levels of education and training as featured in Education and Training Policy of 2014. However, it was observed that despite of the efforts in teaching those languages, there is still a weakness in mastering standards. However, there is a big challenge that hindered the proper utilization of the language of instructions like using English in transition period from Kiswahili primary schools to secondary schools and higher learning institutions. The study recommends that, Both Kiswahili and English should continue to be used as LOI, only if English will be given equal weight with Kiswahili to enable children have good English foundation. Therefore, it will be proper to use all as Language of instructions in Tanzanian schooling system. Moreover, the government should employ teachers who are competent and who can speak English fluently to let learners imitate and practice in order to comprehend the saying known as “The practice makes them to be perfect”. Keywords: Language of Instruction, Medium of Instruction, Tanzania Education System