Contribution of libraries in attaining sustainable development goal four in Zanzibar: 2018-2022

Omar, Abbas M. (2023) Contribution of libraries in attaining sustainable development goal four in Zanzibar: 2018-2022. Doctoral thesis, The Open University of Tanzania.

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Abstract

The purpose of this study was to investigate the contribution of libraries in attaining Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 4 in Zanzibar. It addressed issues of the capacity of libraries, the types of collaborative programmes, the level of implementation of lifelong learning targets and the challenges facing libraries in supporting lifelong learning in Zanzibar. The study used a cross-sectional design, whereas a convergent parallel method was used to collect, analyze and interpret data. Data was collected from school and public library staff, head teachers and education officers in Zanzibar. Out of 185 respondents, 130(70.2%) filled out questionnaires and returned. Interviews were conducted with 47 key informants, while 18 participants were involved in the focus group discussions. The key findings demonstrated that, despite improvements made in the provision of library services, the majority (53.8%) of libraries are facing a shortage of computers, qualified staff and library resources. The findings establish that (80.7%) of libraries provided a low level of collaborative and innovative programmes to support the promotion of lifelong learning. It was revealed that there are neither policies and guidelines nor evaluation strategies to assess the impact of lifelong learning programmes. The study concludes that the absence of collaborative and innovative library programmes and the lack of established library policies and guidelines present a challenge in promoting lifelong learning and undermine the attainment of SDG-4 by 2030. Therefore, the study recommends the need for putting in place policies and guidelines to guide the proper implementation of collaborative initiatives for promoting lifelong learning in Zanzibar. Keywords: Sustainable Development Goal-4, Lifelong learning, literacy, reading habit, adult learning, school library, public library

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