The Project of Digital Mathematics Instructional Materials (DMIM)

The Digital Mathematics Instructional Materials (DMIM) is an innovative project developed by Ms. Ema Boki, a Math4SDG-sponsored PhD student from the School of Education at the University of Dar es Salaam. This initiative aims to address the long-standing challenge of poor performance in Mathematics in Tanzanian secondary schools. 

For over 20 years, Mathematics has consistently recorded low pass rates, largely due to a shortage of qualified mathematics teachers. The DMIM project was developed to help students learn mathematics on their own, especially those who are in an under resourced area. The aim is to enhance students' understanding and performance in Mathematics by integrating modern digital technologies into their learning process. DMIM started as a research study involving two topics from the secondary school Mathematics syllabus. These topics are Algebra for Form I and Earth as a Sphere from Form III. These topics are among the challenging topics selected for assessment and evaluation. 

The project has received two major recognition and awards. First, it was presented at COSTECH's research competition, where it emerged as one of the best projects and was awarded fund to develop a sample business model for the two selected topics. Second, it was showcased during the 2025 Research and Innovation Week at the University of Dar es Salaam, where it won third place for Best Postgraduate Innovation Project. The DMIM project demonstrates great potential in transforming the teaching and learning of Mathematics. With adequate support, it could be expanded to cover the entire secondary school Mathematics syllabus and even extended to other science subjects.

Figure 1. Our device for receiving materials offline

Figure 2.  Explain to secondary schools teachers about DMIM during 49th Dar es Salaam International Trade Fair

Figure 3.  A monetary award from BRELA during Research and Innovation Week, University of Dar es Salaam