How Can Children in the Mara Region, Tanzania, Be Successfully Integrated into Inclusive Educational Programs Despite Significant Structural and Organizational Challenges?

Dos Santos Gomes, Dr. Luiz André und Lexa, Isabel (1. July 2025): How Can Children in the Mara Region, Tanzania, Be Successfully Integrated into Inclusive Educational Programs Despite Significant Structural and Organizational Challenges? Graduate Thesis, Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München.

Abstract

This paper explores the integration of children into inclusive educational programs in the Mara Region of Tanzania, despite considerable structural and organizational challenges. The central research question is: How can children in the Mara Region be successfully integrated into inclusive educational programs? To address this question, a qualitative case study approach was employed. Data were collected through questionnaires and observations across five educational institutions to identify both success factors and obstacles in the implementation of inclusive education. The findings indicate that major challenges include limited financial and material resources, inadequate teacher training, and persistent societal prejudices. Conversely, key success factors comprise targeted pedagogical support, active parental involvement, and pragmatic adaptations of instructional practices to local conditions. These insights underscore the urgent need for structural reforms within Tanzania’s education system. The study recommends enhancing teacher education, expanding accessible infrastructure, and increasing public awareness of the value and principles of inclusive education.

• Item Type: LMU Munich: Thesis
• Keywords: Inclusive Education; Structural Challenges; Teacher Training; Parental Involvement; Tanzania – Mara Region
• Faculties: Psychology and Education Science > Department Education and Rehabilitation > Div. 3: Prevention, Integration and Rehabilitation Research > Education for people with intellectual disabilities and Education for people with emotional and behavioral disorders; Psychology and Education Science > Department Education and Rehabilitation > Selected Theses > State Examination
• Institut or Department: Department Pädagogik und Rehabilitation
• Subjects: 300 Social sciences > 370 Education
• Language: English