Reversing Gender Gap in Schooling and Child Protection: Addressing Boy Vulnerabilities in Tanzania
Nabahani Kimboka & Juma Almasi Mhina
Tengeru Institute of Community Development
Email: kimboka9@gmail.com
Abstract: This study examined the emerging gender gap in schooling and child protection in Tanzania, where notable gains in girls’ empowerment contrast with the growing marginalization of boys. Despite global and national initiatives advancing girls’ rights, boys continue to experience significant yet under-recognized vulnerabilities, including sexual abuse, child labor, emotional distress, and school dropout. Guided by Gender and Development (GAD) theory, a qualitative multiple case study design was employed across Arusha, Kilimanjaro, and Manyara regions. A total of 270 participants were purposively selected to capture diverse perspectives: 90 from Arusha, 100 from Kilimanjaro, and 80 from Manyara, representing students, teachers, parents/guardians, social welfare officers, police officers, NGO representatives, government officials, and community leaders. This strategy enabled comparisons across urban and rural contexts while highlighting gendered experiences. Data were collected through in-depth interviews, focus group discussions, and document analysis and analyzed thematically. Findings indicate that interventions such as scholarships, mentorship, financial support, and safe accommodation have significantly improved girls’ enrollment, retention, and wellbeing. Conversely, boys’ vulnerabilities remain largely overlooked due to rigid masculinity norms, community perceptions, and girl-centered policies. School practices exacerbate this imbalance, as girls’ absenteeism prompts immediate intervention while boys’ challenges often go unaddressed. The study concludes that sustainable gender equity requires inclusive policies and balanced interventions addressing risks for both sexes. Recommendations include gender-inclusive policy reforms, targeted support for boys, equitable school monitoring, community sensitization on harmful gender norms, and longitudinal research to guide evidence-based interventions.
