Education, Equity and Equality in Tanzania: The Role of Mathematics Education

Abstract

The three words of education, equity and equality are different constructs and borrow from each other for one cannot apply the concepts of one without the involvement of the other. Education embraces equity and equality but also equity and equality cannot stand alone without education and therefore these concepts are interwovenly linked. This paper will focus on equity, equality and sparingly on Mathematics education enhancing equity with notion also of Mathematics augmenting equality. Providing every child with a pencil for use in the classroom is an example of promoting equality between students. This paper will provide a conceptual entity for discussion that will stimulate future deliberations on the subject matter. Indeed, the objectives of this inquiry are to: 1) differentiate inter alia what is equity and equality in education 2) explore on what studies on equity for in a few countries in Africa and 3) delve into Mathematics education issues of equity and equality towards making the sense of the education systems. The methodology for the inquiry is documentary analysis. The outcome of the probe will throw heuristic light into ways of raising quality education, developing the full potential of the child and with each student getting the same resources and opportunities. The paper will come out with findings, conclusions and recommendations.