Training for Life camp says to be truly educated, we must provide life skills training to young people aged 15-25, preparing them for real-world success. Photo: Courtesy
By Adonis Byemelwa
December marks a much-anticipated time for Tanzanian students, as the school calendar gives way to a long holiday break filled with potential. For families, this season is a mix of excitement and planning, offering opportunities for rest, connection, and meaningful growth. Some households embrace the holidays as a time to recharge and bond, while others use it to build a foundation for academic and personal success.
From urban centers to rural areas, parents and guardians are finding creative ways to make the most of this period. Whether through travel, community engagement, structured learning programs, or simply nurturing life skills, families across the country are turning the holidays into a time of enrichment and discovery. This transformative approach highlights that these weeks away from school are far more than just a pause—they’re a chance to prepare children for a brighter, more dynamic future.
In Shinyanga Municipality, the holiday period often brings economic pressures to the forefront. For many families, it’s a time for children to contribute to household income by taking on small jobs or selling goods. Baraka Matovu, a student from Bugweto “A,” explains his holiday activities: “We collect used bottles and sell them at Sh1,000 per kilo. Other times, we gather firewood, bundle it, and sell it for around Sh2,000 depending on the quality. It’s tough work, but it helps with school supplies,” he says.
For children like Baraka, holidays are not about leisure but about survival and preparation for the next academic term. Parents like Yusta M’pala see this as a practical way to teach life skills. “My children know holidays mean farm work. I assign them plots for weeding. They wake up early, eat a big meal of ugali, and work until evening. It’s not easy, but it teaches them responsibility,” she explains.
This reality contrasts sharply with the experiences of children from more affluent families, where holidays often include educational programs, camps, and personal development activities. Jerry Gabagambi, a graduate of Sokoine University of Agriculture, recalls how his parents used holidays to nurture his growth. “I was enrolled in camps like the Navigators in Morogoro, where we learned moral values, ICT skills, cooking, and even personal budgeting. These experiences shaped my character and prepared me for life,” he shares.
Educational camps are gaining popularity among families who can afford them. One notable program is Training for Life (TFL) in Moshi, Kilimanjaro. These camps go beyond academics, helping students develop practical skills and build networks.
“The cost is around Sh400,000 for a month, but Form Four and Form Six graduates sometimes stay for two months. For Standard Seven pupils, it’s usually one to two weeks,” says Abela Mutasa, a graduate of Makerere University. “You meet peers from across the country, share experiences, and build social capital. It’s incredibly enriching,” she adds.
For some families, holidays are an opportunity to nurture their children’s unique talents. In Bukoba, Alfred Kato has enrolled his son Erick Bujune in an art program to enhance his drawing skills. “Erick loves art, and this break gives him time to focus on his passion,” Alfred says.
Meanwhile, in Shinyanga, Muzamiru Katunzi spends his holidays training football under the watchful eye of his mother, Stella Hamurungi. “Muzamiru is passionate about football, and this is the perfect time for him to improve his skills while staying active,” Stella explains.
Holidays are also seen as a time to bond and create meaningful memories as a family. Godfrey Shija, a father of three from Shinyanga, has carefully planned his daughter Kareni’s holiday schedule, balancing study and relaxation.
“Holidays aren’t just for resting; they’re a chance to prepare for the future,” he says. Karen, who is set to sit for national exams in 2025, will spend part of her holidays revising while also enjoying a family trip to Mwanza. “Visiting Mwanza will give the kids a chance to learn about local culture and broaden their horizons,” Godfrey adds.
While holidays offer growth opportunities, parents also emphasize the importance of safety. Esther Makoye, a mother from Shinyanga, highlights the risks children face, especially in public spaces. “We must create a safe environment for our children. They need to know how to say ‘no’ if someone asks them to do something unsafe and report it immediately,” she advises. Esther also points out the dangers of exploitation during this time, particularly for young girls. “In Shinyanga, many girls return to school pregnant after being exploited during the holidays. This issue requires serious attention,” she says.
Experts agree that holidays are a crucial time for children to learn and grow. Anderson Mkindi, a holiday planning consultant from Nairobi, advocates for engaging children in productive activities. “Holidays aren’t just about rest; they’re a chance for children to develop skills like reading, solving puzzles, or exploring creative pursuits,” he says. Mkindi emphasizes that such activities help children return to school refreshed and mentally sharper.
Educational psychologists echo this sentiment, emphasizing the long-term benefits of intellectually stimulating activities. Dr. Maria Montessori, a pioneer in child education, once said, “Children achieve higher levels of learning in environments that are both challenging and supportive.” Similarly, Professor Jean Piaget, known for his work on child development, highlighted the importance of logical and creative tasks, noting that they lay a strong foundation for academic success.
For families in Shinyanga and Bukoba, holidays also provide an opportunity for cultural education. Many parents take their children to historical sites, museums, and wildlife parks to deepen their understanding of Tanzania’s rich heritage. Godfrey Shija plans to visit the Karagwe museum with his family to teach them about their region’s history. “It’s essential for children to know where they come from. These trips are both educational and bonding experiences,” he says.
Despite the varied approaches to holidays, one theme remains consistent: the desire to prepare children for a better future. Open communication is a key component of this. “Children need to feel comfortable talking to us about their concerns or questions. This openness builds trust and helps them navigate challenges,” says Stella Hamurungi.
December offers parents a unique chance to turn the school holidays into an enriching and impactful period for their children. It’s a time not only to ensure rest and growth but also to create memorable experiences through travel. Laura Honathan, a family and youth counselor, emphasizes the importance of seizing this rare opportunity, which comes only twice a year, to broaden children’s horizons and provide them with valuable exposure to new environments.
“Travel allows children to meet new people, explore the countryside, and unwind after months of classroom routines,” she says. According to her, the experience of travel inspires children, strengthens family bonds, and provides a fresh perspective on the world around them.
Honathan encourages parents to support their children in building positive friendships and enjoying wholesome activities during vacations. “Encourage them to mingle with good peers, make new friends, and engage in playful yet meaningful activities,” she advises. She suggests that visits to amusement parks or theme parks over the weekend are an ideal way to create joyful moments.
These activities not only promote relaxation but also nurture creativity, teamwork, and social skills, ensuring the holidays leave a lasting impact.
In the end, school holidays in Tanzania are more than just a break from academics. They are a time for children to explore their interests, develop new skills, and strengthen their relationships with family and community. Whether it’s through farm work, art classes, football training, educational camps, or cultural excursions, every experience contributes to shaping well-rounded individuals.