Our Stories

In December 2024, Manyara Primary School in Tanzania switched on solar power for the very first time. This remote government boarding school, with over 300 boarders, finally had sufficient and reliable light after years of studying in the dark. That moment, made possible through the partnership of So They Can, Sun Partners International, and Power Providers Tanzania, was just the beginning.

While light changed the learning environment, water was still a major challenge. Manyara’s connection to metered water was unreliable—often cutting off for days or weeks—and costly. It jeopardised not just hygiene, but also the school’s feeding program and boarding facilities.

With the generous support of Sun Partners, in partnership with So They Can, the impossible was made possible. In July 2025, a solar water pumping system was installed by Power Providers Tanzania, providing a clean, sustainable water supply directly from the school’s deep borehole (230 meters).

The impact is also economic. The solar water system has become a source of income and empowerment. Recognising the value of their water, the school began selling it to community members and local herders. Since August 2025, the school has already generated over TZS 694,000 (approx. AUD $425) in just 6 weeks—income that supports school improvements and student activities.

A young community member, 30 year-old Hassani, trained by Power Providers’ technicians, voluntarily now oversees the school’s solar system. His leadership is inspiring students and nearby schools, as he shares technical knowledge and helps others explore renewable energy solutions. It is this local ownership that embodies So They Can’s sustainable development.

Recently the school community gathered to celebrate the graduation ceremony of Grade 7 students as they complete primary school. The brief video above, shows the impressive learning and teaching facilities at the school, in its remote location. In the video Roselyne, our Country Manager in Tanzania, addresses the school community to emphasise that progress begins when we allow our children to continue with their education, particularly at the secondary school level. She highlights that the world today is full of opportunities, and education opens up the world to these children and their communities.