Augustino Josef Nigiri is the principal of Songambele primary school, which is one of Unite 2 Learn’s partner schools in northern Tanzania. The school is located in the countryside outside Arusha. Songambele is a public school that has about 300 students. The public schools are supported by the Tanzanian government, but the support is far from sufficient. Early last year, the newly elected President John Magufuli decided to abolish the school fee for public schools in Tanzania, aiming at giving every child a chance to go to school and receiving education. As a result, more children attended school, and also the number of students increased at Songambele.

Despite the good initiative, a number of problems followed with the new regulation. Augustino says that even before the increased number of students, Songambele had insufficient resources to take proper care of their students. There were not enough classrooms for all students, which resulted in the students having to have classes outdoors. With the increased number of students, there are even more children who have to have classes outdoors, as the government has not provided the schools with more resources to take care of the new students. Having the classes outdoors affect the students’ education significantly. During the dry season they have to sit in the glistening sun, which is very exhausting, and during the rainy season many classes are cancelled because of the heavy rain. New classrooms are needed in order to secure children’s schooling all year round.

This is the greatest need that Songambele primary school currently has, according to Augustino. That is why we need your help to raise money for a new classroom. Now you can contribute by buying windows, doors, blackboards, school benches, or by donating an individual amount. All contributions are appreciated, and together we can help ensure that all children can exercise their right to education.

You can contribute here.