Although primary education is compulsory in Tanzania, this has stretched the system, and quality of teaching has decreased as a result.

Hoja runs Tuition Courses in July for pupils who hope to pass their exams and go on to secondary school.  The villages do not have electricity, and it is too expensive (not to mention dangerous) for many pupils to study by kerosene lamp in the evenings.

Even if they pass their primary school exams, most students cannot afford to pay the fees to go to secondary school.  Many boys expect to work in the main local industry of charcoal production, a job with long term health risks.  Girls without an education have few opportunities.

However, this does not stop children in Tanga Ward from having dreams and aspirations of becoming doctors, nurses, lawyers and teachers.

Hoja runs a Sponsorship Programme, paying 4 years’ worth of fees (about £70 per year) so that academically bright but financially poor students have a chance to fulfil these aspirations.

With the help of another charity called COCO, we have also converted an old building into a Vocational Training Centre, which teaches local students trades such as building, carpentry and tailoring.  We also have secondary education classes at the VTC.

The Hoja Project UK, 7 Manor Mansions, Belsize Park Gardens, London NW3 4NB, United Kingdom

+44 7584 065 211 | uk@hojaproject.org | The Hoja Project UK is a registered charity no. 1111350