Why Tanzanian Ruvuma Form Six Students Fear Taking Physics in 2025

Physics is a gateway to careers in engineering, technology, and innovation. Yet, many Tanzanian Form Six students avoid it, seeing it as a subject too difficult to handle. But what are the real reasons behind this fear?

1. The "Tough Subject" Mindset

Many students believe that physics is only for geniuses. This negative mindset, reinforced by past failures and difficult national exams, discourages them from taking the subject at advanced levels.

2. Lack of Experienced Teachers

Physics requires deep understanding, yet many schools in Tanzania suffer from a shortage of well-trained teachers. In some cases, teachers rely heavily on theory without practical experiments, making concepts harder to grasp.

3. Limited Laboratory Facilities

Practical experiments help students connect theories to real-life applications. Unfortunately, many Form Six students study physics without access to well-equipped laboratories, leading to frustration and poor performance.

4. Mathematics Anxiety

Since physics involves mathematical calculations, students who struggle with math tend to avoid it. This fear grows stronger in Form Six, where the subject becomes even more calculation-intensive.

5. Pressure from Parents and Peers

Many students choose subjects based on external pressure. If a school has a reputation for poor physics results, students may avoid it to secure higher grades in other subjects. Similarly, parents may advise students to focus on subjects they believe are "easier" or more job-secure.