Every year on May 1st Tanzania commemorates Workers’ Day — a special day that recognises, thanks and awards outstanding workers, including educators, who play a vital role in building up their communities and economies. This year we’re delighted to announce that So They Can’s partners won 3 of the 4 Education Awards, and we couldn’t be more proud.

Best Ward Education Officer (WEO) – Mariam Chobu, Qash Ward WEO. Awarded for her exceptional leadership among the 25 WECs in the Babati District, especially her problem-solving skills and dedication to quality learning. Mariam shared that:

‘I was very happy and couldn’t believe that I had been chosen among so many others. This award has given me the strength and motivation to continue working hard, because I believe that,,,,even the little things I do have been seen to bring value to the lives of others‘.

Best Head Teacher in Babati District Council & the Manyara Region  -Geofrey Matandiko, Manyara Primary School. Awarded for his resilience and dedication, under his leadership Manyara has risen to the best ranking government primary school, out of 137 schools in the district.

Best Teacher of Lower Primary Grades – Lazaro Mapunda, Tsamasi Primary School. His creative talking classroom (pictured below) fosters active learning and has led to significant improvements in student outcomes. He is regarded as a champion teacher among the more than 1,300 teachers across the district.

For So They Can, these awards are more than just plaques and applause — they’re a symbol of how locally led efforts can transform the national education system.

So They Can is proud to support local leaders like Mariam, Geofrey, and Lazaro — and all those in the education system who work every day to build a brighter future for children in Tanzania.