Bridging the gap: Funding School Fees for a brighter future

Written by Munashe Mutsva

On a bright September morning, Ruvarashe Nyatanga, the Community and Education Officer of  TANGA Foundation, and Mrs. Matizha set out on a meaningful journey. Their mission was to connect & sponsor the school fees of two remarkable students: Eve Ndhlovu from Mbizi Primary School and Gina Gwanzura from Kandava Secondary School.

8:30 AM: Arrival at Mbizi Primary School

Upon arriving at Mbizi Primary School, Ruvarashe and Mrs. Matizhas were greeted by the lively sounds of children at play. The headmaster welcomed them warmly, and soon they met Eve, a confident Grade 7 Head Prefect.

Meeting Eve Ndhlovu

Eve stood tall, radiating enthusiasm and leadership. During their conversation, she expressed her excitement about her role and the positive changes she wanted to foster within her school community. “I want to help my classmates,” she shared, her determination evident.

The School’s Commitment and Challenges

As they toured the school, Ruvarashe and Mrs. Matizha learned about various initiatives aimed at supporting students, including a program that provided meals for those in need. The headmaster shared the school’s vision for a nurturing environment, despite facing several challenges.

Challenges faced by Mbizi Primary School:

- Food Insecurity: Many students arrived without lunch, highlighting ongoing struggles within the community.

- Lack of Resources:  The school lacked sufficient desks and classroom supplies, which affected the learning experience of the students. Additionally, this affects the teacher's teaching experience.

- Unpaid Fees:  Financial constraints hindered the school’s ability to develop its facilities and programs, impacting overall student welfare.

When it was time to pay Eve's school fees, it felt like a pivotal moment—one that would help her focus more on her education without the burden of financial stress.

 9:30 AM: Off to Kandava

Ruvarashe and Mrs. Matizha left Mbizi and embarked to their second vist of the day, Kandava Secondary School. An institution located in the Seke District, Mashonaland East Province in Zimbabwe.

11:00 AM: Arrival at Kandava Secondary School

At Kandava, students engaged in lively conversations as the team arrived. Although the  Head of Kandava School was unavailable, a representative shared insights into the school’s initiatives and challenges.

Meeting Gina Gwanzura

Gina Gwanzura, a vibrant Form 4 Junior Chancellor was full of enthusiasm as she saw Tanga Foundation's arrival. During their conversation, she shared her thoughts on the importance of support and resources in education, along with her personal experiences and how they impacted her academic journey.

Supporting the School’s Vision and Challenges

Ruvarashe and Mrs. Matizha learned about Gina’s role and the initiatives in place to help students succeed. They also discovered the challenges faced by Kandava Secondary School:

Challenges faced by Kandava Secondary School:

- Inadequate Teaching Materials:  A lack of resources, especially in subjects like mathematics and science, hindered effective learning.

- Attendance Issues: Inconsistent attendance from some teachers impacted student engagement and learning outcomes.

- Transportation Problems: Many students faced difficulties getting to school, which affected their attendance rates and academic performance.

When the Tanga Foundation team paid Gina’s outstanding school fees, it felt like a significant step in supporting her educational journey and encouraging her leadership.

Reflections on the day by Collins Nyatanga

"In the face of challenges like food insecurity, lack of resources, and financial constraints, both schools continue to provide nurturing environments where young leaders like Eve and Gina thrive. What stands out most for me is the resilience and determination of these two young women, who despite their circumstances, radiate leadership and a deep desire to make a difference in their communities.

Eve’s eagerness to help her classmates and Gina’s insight into the importance of resources and support demonstrate the incredible potential that lies within them—potential that simply needs the right opportunities to flourish.

By covering their school fees, Tanga Foundation has not just alleviated a financial burden; they have empowered these young leaders to focus on what truly matters: their education and growth. It is an investment in their futures, and through them, in the future of their communities.

The challenges faced by both schools highlight the need for continued support and systemic change. This campaign serves as a reminder that when we invest in the dreams and futures of young people, especially in underserved communities, we’re planting seeds of transformation that will one day bear fruit, not just for the individuals but for entire communities. Eve and Gina’s stories are testaments to the fact that leadership, resilience, and a passion for change can bloom in even the most challenging environments when given the right support."

A Call to Action and Vote of Thanks

TANGA Foundation invites others to join in supporting students like Eve and Gina. Every contribution helps ensure that all children have the resources they need to thrive. 

Special thanks to Collins Nyatanga, the Director and Founder of the TANGA Foundation, for his philanthropic investment in the children and for making a difference in their education.

Gratitude also goes to Ruvarashe Nyatanga and Mrs. Matizha for their diligent efforts in orchestrating this campaign and the commitment to mentor our sponsored girls.

Thank you all for supporting TANGA Foundation as we strive to make a meaningful difference in the lives of African children. Let’s continue to work together to create opportunities and build a brighter future.