St Jude’s students celebrate the gift of their free education

Arusha –Hundreds of students have decked out in colourful costumes to celebrate St Jude’s Day recently, showing their appreciation for the free, high-quality education they receive at the school.

Primary and secondary students did traditional African dances, including Maasai and other performances, which expressed their happiness at being able to study at St Jude’s and their dedication to their studies. Awards were given out to the best group performances on the day.

Each year, staff and students join together and dress up to demonstrate their sense of pride for their school. During the event’s mass, students carried baskets of goods onto the stage, which they will then distribute to needy people throughout the Arusha region.

“It makes them learn how fortunate they are to be at St Jude’s and also ensures they are in touch with and caring for other marginalised people in the community,” said Mr Peter Manjalla, the school’s Upper Primary Headmaster.

Australian Gemma Sisia set up the school in 2002 and each year it provides over 1800 Tanzanian students in Arusha a free, high-quality education so they can escape a life of poverty and gain the tools to succeed in life and the opportunity to become leaders. Students are currently learning a wide range of subjects to help them reach their career goals while ensuring they are well rounded individuals who will be able to contribute to the community in a positive way.

“I feel proud because St Jude’s helps me to succeed so I can pass my exams and become a doctor so I can treat people,” said Baba, a Standard 5 student.

All of St Jude’s academic staff are Tanzanian and it employs more than 400 people from the local area as well as more than 20 international volunteers.

“This is my first St Jude’s Day and it’s an opportunity for everyone at the school to come together,” said Josephine Bridges, ESL Teacher Mentor at the school’s secondary campus.