Problems of teaching through the medium of Kiswahili in teacher training colleges in Tanzania

Abstract

This paper attempts to reveal some pedagogic problems related to the use of Kiswahili as the medium of instruction in teacher training colleges in Tanzania. The paper is based on a theory of language as a medium of communication. Language skills such as speaking and writing are among the theoretical issues discussed and then linked with actual practice. Among other problems, the paper spells out three major problems. Firstly that there is lack of clear Kiswahili academic register and very often tutors mix the science and the arts registers. Secondly, tutors under this programme were not adequately prepared. For example, there was not a single seminar organised for them. Lastly, but not least, there is a problem of dissemination of terminologies. Pamphlets and journals which contain Kiswahili terminologies for the schools hardly reach the consumers.