Assistant to the Bishop of the Eastern and Coast Diocese Rev Chediel Lwiza. Photo: Courtesy
By Adonis Byemelwa
The vibrant atmosphere at Mbezi Beach Church in Dar es Salaam was electric as the closing ceremony of the 31st Education Week for the East and Coast Diocese schools unfolded on 21st September 2024.
With live coverage on Upendo TV, the event captured the community's attention, highlighting the essential role of church schools in nurturing both the minds and spirits of children.
Pastor Chediel Lwiza, the Assistant Bishop of the Diocese, accentuated that these Christian schools are not business-oriented; rather, they are dedicated to serving the community and providing holistic education.
Pastor Chediel Lwiza, the Assistant Bishop of the Diocese, took center stage, passionately advocating for the unique value of these institutions. He called on parents and guardians to place their trust in church schools, emphasizing their unwavering commitment to quality education.
"Our schools are more than just places of learning; they are sanctuaries for holistic development," Pastor Lwiza declared, urging families to recognize the benefits of this nurturing environment.
He announced plans for the establishment of the Jerusalem School in Kijitonyama next year and encouraged parents to register their children for early education.
As well, he mentioned existing schools such as Mbwawa, Kisarawe Junior Seminary, and Jerusalem Secondary School, all of which require students for Form One, specifically targeting those who have passed their primary school exams.
Quoting Proverbs 22:6, Rev. Lwiza stressed the importance of raising children on the right path, explaining that the term "children" encompasses those from infancy to age 20. He drew a parallel to biblical figures, like Moses and King Solomon, to illustrate the potential within every child, regardless of age or maturity.
The affable pastor reinforced that the responsibility of nurturing children does not lie solely with teachers but also with parents and the community at large. He expressed a vision for the Diocese to increase student enrollment and academic success in church institutions by 2027.
While acknowledging current achievements in student performance, he called for continuous improvement and highlighted the need for educational institutions to become self-sustaining.
Earlier in the event, Goodluck Nkini, the Secretary General of the East and Coast Diocese, welcomed the participants and recognized the efforts being made to provide quality education. He expressed gratitude for the talents displayed by students during the celebrations, highlighting the importance of collaboration among educators to meet the challenges of a competitive educational landscape.
The ceremony featured performances and showcases from students across the diocese's schools, with various clergy and evangelists in attendance. The event illustrated the commitment of the East and Coast Diocese to foster educational excellence, reinforcing the message that education is a communal responsibility aimed at nurturing well-rounded individuals.