61% of Manyara Primary School’s students are boarders. It is one of the only Government primary schools in the Gallapo Ward that provides dormitory facilities to ensure children from remote villages can access education. In an exciting new partnership with Sun Partners International the school campus has been lit up, with a new solar power system.

​​The school is one of the top-performing schools in the District. In 2024 they ranked 2nd out of 147 public primary schools in the Grade 4 national exam, and 3rd out of 141 public primary schools in the Grade 7 national exam. Their outstanding academic results are even more impressive, given some of the challenges in the school’s learning and teaching environment – they lack electricity for adequate lighting.

Supported by Sun Partners International, local contractor Power Providers Tanzania’s technicians installed the solar power system, solar streetlights and the electrical wiring for the dining hall, boys’ and girls’ dormitories, and two classrooms in December 2024. A total of 5 solar panels (580W each) with batteries, ensure that there is adequate lighting for the school’s campus.

Children have been so excited, experiencing the solar powered sensor lights turn on and off, as they walk up and down the paths with new streetlights. The lighting in the classrooms and dining hall, mean that evening study classes can take place. Whilst the lighting in and around the dormitories ensure everyone’s safety.

‘I appreciate having sufficient lighting here at school. In the past, it was challenging to ensure everyone found time to study individually and in remedial classes, so sometimes they had to collaborate to learn in one classroom. Looking at potential solutions, we’re pleased to have adequate light for the children to study their extra lessons. Additionally, this will help us, as Dormitory Guardians, improve efficiency at night regarding safety measures.‘

Halima, Manyara Primary School Teacher.

It is estimated that half a billion people across Africa don’t have access to electricity. The World Bank, African Development Banks and others have pledged significant investment for solar electric-power generation. Mission 300 will deliver electricity to 300 million Africans by 2030.