THE The Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) has completed and handed over its environmental improvement project at Mama Maryam Mwinyi Pre-Primary School in Zanzibar, marking a significant milestone in advancing early childhood education in the Indian Ocean archipelago.

The handover ceremony, late last week was attended by Fatma Mode Ramadhan, Director of Nursery and Primary Schools in the Ministry of Education and Vocational Training, alongside representatives from the Ministry of Education and Vocational Training, school staff, KOICA volunteers, and students. 

The project, which began in January 2024, involved a total investment of $27,000 (70m/-) with over $8,000 (20m/-) specifically allocated to transforming the school’s outdoor environment. 

Led by 10 KOICA volunteers, the initiative created a dynamic and engaging space aimed at fostering academic progress as well as supporting the social and emotional development of the children.

In her speech, Ramadhan expressed heartfelt gratitude to KOICA for creating a more conducive learning environment for both students and teachers. 

She emphasized that the improved facilities would encourage children to develop a love for school and enhance teaching effectiveness for educators. She also thanked KOICA for its ongoing support to Zanzibar, particularly in the education sector, and affirmed the Ministry’s recognition of KOICA’s valuable contributions. 

She highlighted the importance of maintaining and strengthening the partnership with KOICA.

The school’s headmistress, Harusi Mbarouk Hamis, echoed these sentiments, thanking the Ministry for facilitating KOICA’s support.

 She noted that the enhanced environment would significantly improve children’s learning experiences and pointed out that KOICA had equipped classrooms with new writing tables designed to aid reading and writing. 

Harusi also commended KOICA volunteers for their dedication and hard work in transforming the school’s environment.

In his remarks, KOICA Tanzania Country Director Manshik Shin emphasized the transformative impact of the project. 

“Education is the cornerstone of any thriving community, and it begins with creating an environment where children feel safe, inspired, and eager to learn. These improvements reflect our shared vision of providing a nurturing space for children to grow and thrive,” he said.

Following the ceremony, a performance-sharing meeting was held at Marumaru Hotel to showcase the achievements and experiences of KOICA’s Early Childhood Education volunteers. 

The event served as a platform to highlight the importance of early education and strengthen partnerships in support of achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 4: Quality Education.

KOICA remains committed to empowering communities and enhancing educational opportunities in Tanzania and beyond through initiatives that foster sustainable development.