GEORGE MARIOTT KAZI — HEADMASTER, KIBAHA SECONDARY SCHOOL

"UWEZO projects implemented in our school come with many benefits. Rather than listing the benefits one by one, I’d like to connect them directly to the current curriculum introduced by the government. This new, competency-based curriculum aims to ensure that students acquire practical skills — skills that allow them to do, not just know.

Now, for students to gain these competencies, they must apply what they learn in class through hands-on experience. The students who are members of the UWEZO CLUB have a great opportunity in this regard. First, they engage in practical work in school laboratories. Second, they participate in hands-on projects through UWEZO CLUB. So when they implement these projects, they are not only fulfilling the objectives of UWEZO CLUB, but they are also putting into action the goals of the national education framework.

Let me give examples of the types of projects they do. First, we have service-based projects like blood donation drives. These students are saving lives — people who might have died or suffered long-term weakness are alive and strong today because of them. That’s a direct contribution to national productivity.

Secondly, some of the projects directly benefit the school. There are items students produce that we use here at school, while others are sold or donated to those in need. For example, students make soap and charcoal briquettes that the school uses — this reduces our operating costs. They also sell these products to generate income.

Moreover, when students take part in such projects and competitions, they earn awards. This brings pride to the school and shows that we are truly implementing the national curriculum. In my office, you’ll find trophies, medals, and sometimes even cash prizes that the students have won. These benefits extend to the individual student, the school, and Tanzanian society at large. As a headmaster, I fully support UWEZO CLUB in our school.

They also engage in environmental activities, which are crucial. Our students are planting trees and maintaining flower gardens around the school, especially around the area marked with the UWEZO CLUB signpost. This helps promote environmental conservation and climate responsibility among the youth.

I continue to support and congratulate the UWEZO CLUB at our school. They must keep being innovative, because today’s world demands that young people possess 21st-century skills. These include creativity, effective communication — not just within the school but with other schools and the wider Tanzanian community — and teamwork.

In closing, I thank the organizers of this program. As head of the school, I will continue to support them and increase student participation in these life-changing projects."