Arusha, Hear!
Project Background
When Antti and Eva first visited Meru Primary School (MPS) in 2011, they discovered a critical gap in education—only 5% of deaf children were attending and completing primary school, with even fewer continuing to secondary education. Determined to create lasting change, we partnered with the school’s headmaster and special needs educators to enhance the learning environment and provide ongoing training for staff. Through these efforts, we are working to improve educational opportunities and outcomes for deaf students, ensuring they have the support they need to succeed.
Project Progression
The educator training program initiated in 2013 aims to continuously improve the teaching skills of all staff members and technicians. These trained personnel play a crucial role in leading teacher training sessions as Tanzania expands its IT-based learning institutions. We work alongside teachers from Meru Primary School (MPS) to incorporate learning materials for students with disabilities and provide guidance during the implementation of new materials and equipment.
Additionally, we supply school essentials such as backpacks and uniforms, and organize travel assistance for students facing financial constraints or lengthy commutes to school.
THE LEARNING CENTER
Our great dream was fulfilled: a new learning center opened on August 19, 2015.
Through private funding, we constructed a new learning centre that serves as classrooms the MPS deaf unit. This centre is equipped with state-of-the-art technology including wireless internet, optical fiber connection, and a solar power system. The installation of these facilities was made possible through financial support from the Finnish Ministry of Foreign Affairs between 2014 and 2016.
The construction of the learning centre was funded by FSE FI. The MFA provided the necessary funding to equip the learning centre with fibre cable Internet connection, a wireless network for online teaching, computers, interactive projectors, document cameras, a printer, and a solar energy system for reliable power supply. This centre not only supported primary education but also provided training for various Arusha personnel groups and young deaf individuals who had dropped out of school.
Throughout this project we were able to train two ICT support technicians as well as a program facilitator. Following the completion of the project, the City of Arusha employed all of our trainees, ensuring the sustainability of inclusive education and after school activities. The ICT support has increased the longevity of the resources and equipment brought to the learning centre.
