This study explores the perceived gap between journalism education and professional practice in Tanzania and Zambia. Through interviews with educators and journalists and an analysis of 12 journalism curricula, the findings reveal that both educators and journalists acknowledged a gap, with a shared desire for improved alignment between academic programs and industry needs. Educators expressed a commitment to incorporating contemporary content, but face challenges like limited industry collaboration and resource constraints. Journalists, however, observed a hesitancy among educators in implementing recommendations from the industry. Both groups see the need for integrating theory and practice into the curricula.