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| The learning citadel believes in celebrating achievements only after students have completed their rigorous preparation. Photo: Courtesy |
By
Adonis Byemelwa
In
a heartwarming display of collaboration and support, Greenlight High School, a
prestigious all-girls boarding institution located in Madale Mivumoni off
Bagamoyo Road, held a prayer and motivational session on October 19, 2024, for
Form Two and Form Four students preparing for upcoming national examinations.
This
event highlighted the strong relationships between teachers, students, and
parents, emphasizing the school's commitment to nurturing not just academic
excellence, but also mental well-being.
Unlike
many schools that engage in elaborate ceremonies before examinations,
Greenlight High School prioritizes equipping its students with essential skills
through comprehensive revisions, collaborative group discussions, and effective
team teaching.
The
learning citadel believes in celebrating achievements only after students have
completed their rigorous preparation, ensuring that they are fully ready for
the challenges ahead. This commitment to academic excellence is what sets
Greenlight apart, fostering a culture of hard work and resilience before
embarking on festivities that honor their dedication.
The
school's Director, Zainabu Mwenda, expressed her pride in the dedicated efforts
of the teaching staff and leadership team. “Parents and guardians need to be
close to their children and create an environment where they feel safe to
express themselves,” she stated, highlighting the importance of mental health
in preventing issues such as gender-based violence.
Ms.
Mwenda also shared her commitment to empowering girls, inviting motivational
speakers like retired Evangelical Lutheran Church Pastor Richard Hananja, who
inspires youth with his life lessons. “We strive to provide girls with
everything they deserve,” she added.
Ms.
Verynice Javan, the school’s headmistress, echoed this sentiment, noting that
students are well-prepared and expressing optimism about their performance in
the upcoming exams. “We expect great results, thanks to the tireless efforts of
our teachers who ensure that students receive a high-quality education that
prepares them for future job markets,” she affirmed.
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| The captivating gospel dancers at Greenlight High School mesmerized the audience, showcasing their incredible talent and vibrant spirit during the event. Photo: Courtesy. |
Parent, Mohamed Msindi, who was invited to offer advice to the students, urged them to aim high and embrace resilience. “Failing is part of learning, but what matters is your determination to persevere until you reach your goals,” he remarked, drawing on the success story of Nigerian entrepreneur Aliko Dangote, whose journey exemplifies the rewards of hard work and dedication.
He
encouraged students to leverage their talents to generate income, citing
successful figures in the entertainment industry. “Every student has untapped
potential. Work hard and make your parents proud—that is the best gift you can
give them,” he advised.
Another
parent representative emphasized the importance of faith and reliance on God
for guidance. She stressed that nothing brings parents more joy than seeing
their children excel academically and become self-sufficient. “Temptations and
negative influences have no place in the pursuit of academic success,” she
insisted.
Religious
leaders took the opportunity to offer prayers and life skills training,
reminding students of the importance of focus. Sheikh Ahmad Ahmad cautioned
against romantic relationships for schoolgirls, warning that they can lead to
distractions. “I feel offended to see Muslim schoolgirls face disciplinary
actions. We must all work together—parents, teachers, and the community—to
ensure our children behave consistently,” he stated.
The
event also featured student performances and religious rituals, showcasing a
vibrant school spirit. Mwenda expressed plans to enhance the curriculum by
introducing the Chinese language, which has opened many doors for young people
globally. With 44 Form Four students and 27 Form Two candidates, Greenlight
High School maintains an excellent teacher-student ratio, ensuring personalized
attention in both academic and extracurricular subjects.
In
Tanzania, the status of secondary education for schoolgirls is a pressing
concern, marked by challenges like limited resources and societal pressures.
Yet, schools like Greenlight High are paving the way for a brighter future.
This exceptional institution is setting a benchmark for holistic education by
creating a nurturing environment that prioritizes not only academic success but
also the mental and emotional well-being of its female students.
With
unwavering dedication from educators, parents, and community leaders, these
young women are inspired to reach for greatness. Greenlight High’s innovative
approach, commitment to empowerment, and focus on personal growth are truly
commendable, making it a beacon of hope for girls across the nation. As these
students prepare for their exams, they carry with them the strength of a
supportive community that believes in their potential to transform lives and
uplift society.