ABSTRACT
Education is a fundamental and universal basic need for all, especially orphans and vulnerable children in Tanzania. Education imparts knowledge, skills, and competencies to individuals. This study assessed educational opportunities and the support available to orphans and vulnerable children (OVC) in Bagamoyo District to determine socioeconomic and psychological factors that limit access to education. Data were collected using in-depth interviews, non-participant observation and documentary review. The study involved 102 orphans and vulnerable children aged between 7 and 15 years and 35 adults key informants aged 25 years and above. The findings showed that OVC had access to free primary education but had limited access to secondary education. Access to education among OVC was constrained by limited and unreliable sources of funds to meet the necessary basic needs and school requirements including food, learning materials, school uniform, and fees. The findings show further that, OVC living in extended family experience more challenges compared to those staying in orphanage homes. OVC in the family and orphanage homes experience psychological challenges such as depression, loneliness, and stress. The study recommends that community programmes aimed at assisting orphans and vulnerable children should be strengthened to enable Orphanage homes and the extended family in taking care of orphans and vulnerable children. The relevant ministry (POR-LAG) should facilitate the availability of educational resources among orphans and vulnerable children to enable them to realise their educational goals.
