Integrated information system for empowerment of street children under resource-limited settings in Tanzania

Integrated information system for empowerment of street children under resource-limited settings in Tanzania

Research Project Name: Integrated information system for empowerment of street children under resource-limited settings in Tanzania

Reg Number: CoICT-ETE23044   

Principal Investigator: Dr. Eva Shayo

Funding Agency: University of Dar es Salaam (UDSM)

Amount TZS: 20,000,000

Start Date: Mar 20, 2023             

Description: The available attempts on reducing the problem of street children involves collection of such children into centers, which provide food as well as care, accommodation, and clothing facilities. The power of ICT (online TV) has not been properly exploited to address the problem, despite several reports showing how ICT can alleviate poverty in underprivileged people, such as street children. We, therefore, intend to apply ICT as an indispensable tool to advance our present understanding on supporting and empowering street children. The project will come up with two major components

1. Street children online platform

This is a website for displaying and managing information of street children, and for assisting stakeholders to find and evaluate profiles of such children. The platform automates the process of locating street children and of identifying their personal details. Traditionally, street children have been visiting organizations responsible for keeping and caring them. But this practice seems ineffective and inefficient, because only a few knowledgeable and well-informed street children may select the option.

     2. Online TV channel for street children

This project will facilitate exposition of potential talents of street children through the online TV, hence creating awareness to the public. Consequently, these children may become confident to interact with other children in the society. The proposed solution is expected to address the challenge by arming street children with knowledge and skills suitable in socio-economic development, from family level to the country level. Their talents cultivated and displayed on the developed online TV may be a valuable asset for them to stimulate revenue collection from the public. In addition, the local government authorities in the area where the project will be carried out may feel obliged to reserve special funds for supporting talented street children to further develop their talents. This expected response from the government may lead to reformation or revision of the current policies on children.

 

Expected Output: The project is expected to generate two major outputs (1) online platform for storing and managing information of street children; and (2) online TV for street children.

Expected Completion Date: Mar 20, 2024

Team Members:

1. Diana Rwegasira
2. Fred Chibwana
3. Jestina Katandukila
4. Respicius Damian

 

Contacts

Please contact the Principal Investigator for all matters related to the project.

Email: shayo.eva@udsm.ac.tz

Mobile: +255755834297

You may also reach the department:

Email: ete@udsm.ac.tz

Telephone: 022 241 0500 (Ext. 2537)