Efforts Made by TASAF III Cash Transfers on Enrollment of Vulnerable Children in Public Secondary Schools in Mvomero District, Tanzania

Abstract

This study assessed the efforts made by Tanzania Social Action Fund Phase Three (TASAF III) cash transfers on enrollment of vulnerable children in public secondary schools in Mvomero district, Tanzania. The study was guided by Human Capital Investment Theory, which holds that investing in education, training and health could increase the productivity of individuals. A mixed integrated on the convergent design was adapted under pragmatism philosophy. Data were collected through the use of questionnaires to program beneficiaries, interview guides to Hos and WEOs, and documentary review for data review. The study used a total sample size of 36 respondents, including 30 program beneficiaries, 3 HoS, and 3 WEOs. Data were analysed descriptively using SPSS version 20 and thematically to enrich quantitative and qualitative data. The study revealed the increased enrolment of vulnerable children in public secondary schools as a result of TASAF's interventions like the provision of conditional cash transfers, awareness, and regular follows-up. The study concluded that financial constraints, and awareness were the key barriers that previously hindered school enrolment of vulnerable children in schools. The study recommended TASAF to update beneficiary names to give chances for others who are in need, NGOs to complement the program through provision of additional support to vulnerable children enrolled in schools like meals, psychological services, and sanitary products.