Group of 106 French tourists renovate school in Karatu
KARATU, ARUSHA: IN a remarkable display of international goodwill, a group of 106 tourists from France has contributed 4,000 US dollars (about 11m/-) towards the renovation of Bashay Primary School in Karatu, Tanzania.
The group, part of the Auditors Commission of the ECF Federation, is visiting the country to explore its natural wonders and has chosen to give back to the local community by supporting educational development.
During a heartfelt ceremony to unveil the newly painted school buildings, Mr. Jean Francois Mallen, President of the Auditors Commission, spoke on behalf of the group.
“For each of us, it is obvious and logical to make the conditions of education easier and to take part in the school’s development,” he stated, emphasising the importance of access to education as a pathway to autonomy and freedom.
Mr. Mallen expressed gratitude to the community for their warm welcome, sharing, “We are very happy to share this moment of solidarity with you.”
The tourists’ journey through Tanzania, organised by the Mount Kilimanjaro Safari Club (MKSC), included visits to the Zanzibar Isles and the northern tourism circuit. Their contribution not only supports the local community but also celebrates Karatu’s environmental conservation efforts.
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Bashay Primary School’s Acting Headteacher, Mr. Zakayo Sulle, expressed deep gratitude for the tourists’ generosity. “Their efforts have renewed the school, creating a more conducive environment for learning,” he said.
Mr Sulle also credited MKSC for its commitment to community development, noting that the enhanced facilities have contributed to the school’s consistent performance as the top institution in the Karatu District for five consecutive years.
Opened in 1961, Bashay Primary School currently serves 1,200 pupils with the support of 18 dedicated teachers. The school’s renovation marks a significant enhancement to its infrastructure, benefiting both students and staff.
MKSC Transport Manager, Mr. Stanley Msami, highlighted that supporting the community is a core part of their corporate strategy. “We are grateful to our visitors for backing our efforts to improve the livelihoods of the communities where we operate,” he noted.
This collaboration between international visitors and local stakeholders showcases the powerful impact of cross-cultural cooperation and the shared goal of fostering sustainable development through education.
