Who We Are?
The Organisation of Special Needs Education Teachers (OSNET) is a professional body dedicated to advancing inclusive and equitable education for learners with diverse needs across Tanzania. We bring together teachers, educators, and practitioners who are committed to supporting children with disabilities especially those who are deaf, hard of hearing, visually impaired, or living with other learning challenges through innovative teaching, advocacy, and collaboration.
OSNET was established with the belief that every learner deserves the right to quality education, regardless of their abilities or circumstances. Our members work at the forefront of inclusive schools, developing creative approaches, sharing expertise, and providing mentorship to ensure that no learner is left behind.
We serve as a bridge between teachers, families, policymakers, and stakeholders, creating spaces for dialogue, training, and resource sharing. Through partnerships with local and international organizations, OSNET promotes the integration of assistive technologies, teacher capacity-building, and evidence-based practices to strengthen learning outcomes.
More than just a teachers’ network, OSNET is a community driven by passion, collaboration, and vision. Together, we strive to shape an inclusive education system where diversity is embraced, barriers are broken, and learners with special needs are empowered to reach their full potential.
OUR STORY
The Organisation of Special Needs Education Teachers (OSNET) is a registered Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO) operating in Tanzania Mainland under the Non-Government Organization Act of 2002. It was officially registered on 16 December 2014 with the registration number 00NGO/00007687 and has its headquarters in Musoma Township.
OSNET began as a small alliance of eight passionate special education teachers who came together to address the pressing challenges faced by learners with disabilities in mainstream schools. Before formal registration, these teachers worked collectively to share experiences and provide mutual support. Soon after, seven more members joined, increasing the group to fifteen. Over the years, the membership has expanded significantly, and today OSNET counts 244 members, of which 96% are special education teachers serving diverse groups of learners with special needs across Tanzania. Importantly, membership is open to all individuals regardless of gender, ethnicity, or religion, reflecting our inclusive values.
From its inception, OSNET has been guided by a simple yet powerful vision: to ensure every learner, regardless of ability, has the right to quality and inclusive education. The organization has provided a unified platform for teachers to collaborate, advocate for better resources, and influence policies that support inclusive practices.
Through training programs, awareness campaigns, and partnerships with both local and international organizations, OSNET has promoted the use of assistive technologies, innovative teaching tools, and evidence-based strategies. From humble beginnings, OSNET has grown into a respected national voice for special needs education—driven by resilience, collaboration, and the unwavering belief in every child’s potential to thrive.
Vision & Mission
Our Vision
To build an inclusive Tanzanian education system where all children access quality learning and support regardless of their abilities.
Our Mission
OSNET equips educators through training, resources, and advocacy, promoting inclusive education by partnering with stakeholders to ensure equal learning opportunities for all students, with or without disabilities
Leadership & Governance
Wilfred Serikali
Chairperson of OSNET
Wilfred Elias Serikali is the Current Chairperson of the Organisation of Special Needs Education Teachers (OSNET). A passionate educator and advocate for inclusive learning, he has dedicated his career to improving the quality of education for children with special needs in Tanzania. His leadership is grounded in the belief that every child, regardless of disability or background, deserves equal opportunities to learn, grow, and succeed.
With years of professional experience as a special need’s education teacher, Wilfred has firsthand knowledge of the challenges faced by learners with disabilities and the educators who support them. His vision for OSNET focuses on empowering teachers, advancing inclusive policies, and integrating innovative tools such as assistive technologies to strengthen classroom practices.
As Chairperson, Wilfred has played a central role in expanding OSNET’s membership base, strengthening partnerships with local and international organizations, and leading initiatives that build teacher capacity across the country. He is deeply committed to advocacy, ensuring that the voices of teachers and learners with special needs are heard in policy discussions and decision-making platforms.
Beyond his organizational leadership, Wilfred is also dedicated to community development, innovation, and creating opportunities that uplift both teachers and learners. Under his guidance, OSNET continues to grow as a national voice for special needs education driven by collaboration, inclusivity, and a clear vision for a more equitable education system in Tanzania.
Charles Mashauri
BOARD CHAIRPERSON
Charles Mashauri serves as the Board Chairperson of the Organisation of Special Needs Education Teachers (OSNET), providing strategic leadership and guidance to advance the organization’s mission of inclusive education. With extensive experience in Community Planning and Development Programs, Charles has been a strong advocate for learners with disabilities, particularly in ensuring that teachers are well-equipped to support diverse learning needs in Tanzanian schools.
As Chairperson, he plays a key role in shaping OSNET’s policies, strengthening partnerships, and promoting collaboration between educators, government bodies, and development partners. His leadership emphasizes transparency, accountability, and innovation, enabling OSNET to grow into a respected national voice for inclusive education.
Charles is deeply committed to empowering teachers and creating opportunities for professional development, while also championing the integration of assistive technologies in classrooms. Under his guidance, OSNET continues to build a strong foundation for equity, accessibility, and quality education for all learners
Our Members
The strength of the Organisation of Special Needs Education Teachers (OSNET) lies in its diverse and dedicated membership. Our members represent a community of professionals and supporters who are united by a shared commitment to inclusive education and the empowerment of learners with special needs.
Teachers
Teachers are the largest group of members are who form the backbone of OSNET. They include special education professionals working in schools across Tanzania, serving learners who are deaf, hard of hearing, visually impaired, or living with other learning challenges. These teachers bring invaluable classroom experience, knowledge, and passion to our network.
Volunteers
OSNET welcomes volunteers who contribute their time, skills, and creativity to support our programs, teaching, awareness campaigns, and community outreach. Their involvement helps us extend our impact beyond classrooms into families and local communities.
Honorary Members
Honorary membership in OSNET is granted to individuals or institutions that have made outstanding contributions to the field of special needs and inclusive education. These members may not be directly involved in classroom teaching, but their advocacy, research, funding, or technical support significantly advances OSNET’s mission. Honorary members are highly respected within the organization, serving as ambassadors, advisors, and partners who inspire and strengthen OSNET’s vision of quality education for all learners with special needs.
Partners & Collaborators
We also collaborate with partners, including local and international organizations, policymakers, and stakeholders. Their technical support, resources, and advocacy strengthen OSNET’s ability to influence national education practices and policies.