March 2020 - Tanzania Closes Schools For A Month
On the 17th of March the Prime Minister of Tanzania, Kassim Majaliwa, made the decision to close schools and universities nationwide for 30 days aimed at combating the spread of Covid-19. Other measures that were taken included banning large public gatherings and suspending the Tanzanian Premier League. Currently, there are 12 recorded cases of Covid-19 in Tanzania.
The morning of the 18th of March was a hectic one at both Tumaini Junior School and Tumaini Senior School with parents, guardians and relatives coming to collect students. There were also a procession of school buses, motorcycle taxis, and traditional car taxis ferrying students home. At Tumaini Junior School, the school administration gave detailed tutorials on how students should wash their hands and maintain hygiene while at home. During this time, TEC Project Based Learning teacher, Eliza, was also handing out fact sheets about Covid-19 from the library at Tumaini Secondary School which helped clear up a lot of the confusion and inevitable fear that students had. There have been many conflicting news stories regarding Covid-19 and the abrupt closure of schools unnerved many students who may have already experienced loss due to illnesses like Malaria or HIV. Eliza explained key facts pertaining to who is most susceptible to Covid-19 and how to properly protect yourself from the illness. Many of these flyers were taken home with students and we hope that they will be distributed within communities!
Although the vast majority of schools in Tanzania do not yet have the capabilities for distance learning, Tumaini students went home holding textbooks and homework ready to continue their studies from home. Due to the exam heavy curriculum in Tanzania, the week prior to Easter had already been put aside for midterms so we are not expecting for this 30 day closure to have any adverse impacts upon students' performances!
The Tanzanian authorities have been fast to respond to Covid-19 and we are very optimistic that this will allow for schools to reopen as usual in mid-April. Although this cannot currently be guaranteed, we are feeling very positive! In the case that schools do have to reopen later than usual, the Government has plans in place to delay key exams so as to not disadvantage students unfairly.
We are also happy to announce that our four students, who spent time abroad at Gould Academy, were returned safely to Tanzania. None of them have tested positive for the virus, nor are they exhibiting symptoms. After spending some time in quarantine, they were returned to their families earlier this week. We cannot wait to share with you their experiences from their time in Maine.
This situation will continue to change and evolve but all TEC staff members have made the decision to remain in the country. We will continue to keep you abreast of any new developments and please feel free to contact us with any questions or concerns you may have!