The learning citadel believes in celebrating achievements only after students have completed their rigorous preparation. Photo: Courtesy
Greenlight High School, a Beacon of Excellence, Nurturing Tanzania’s Future Leaders
By Adonis Byemelwa
In a heartwarming display of collaboration and support, Greenlight High School, a prestigious all-girls boarding institution located in Madale Mivumoni off Bagamoyo Road, held a prayer and motivational session on October 19, 2024, for Form Two and Form Four students preparing for upcoming national examinations.
This event highlighted the strong relationships between teachers, students, and parents, emphasizing the school’s commitment to nurturing not just academic excellence, but also mental well-being.
Unlike many schools that engage in elaborate ceremonies before examinations, Greenlight High School prioritizes equipping its students with essential skills through comprehensive revisions, collaborative group discussions, and effective team teaching.
The learning citadel believes in celebrating achievements only after students have completed their rigorous preparation, ensuring that they are fully ready for the challenges ahead. This commitment to academic excellence is what sets Greenlight apart, fostering a culture of hard work and resilience before embarking on festivities that honor their dedication.
The school’s Director, Zainabu Mwenda, expressed her pride in the dedicated efforts of the teaching staff and leadership team. “Parents and guardians need to be close to their children and create an environment where they feel safe to express themselves,” she stated, highlighting the importance of mental health in preventing issues such as gender-based violence.
Ms. Mwenda also shared her commitment to empowering girls, inviting motivational speakers like retired Evangelical Lutheran Church Pastor Richard Hananja, who inspires youth with his life lessons. “We strive to provide girls with everything they deserve,” she added.
Ms. Verynice Javan, the school’s headmistress, echoed this sentiment, noting that students are well-prepared and expressing optimism about their performance in the upcoming exams. “We expect great results, thanks to the tireless efforts of our teachers who ensure that students receive a high-quality education that prepares them for future job markets,” she affirmed.
The captivating gospel dancers at Greenlight High School mesmerized the audience, showcasing their incredible talent and vibrant spirit during the event. Photo: Courtesy.
Parent, Mohamed Msindi, who was invited to offer advice to the students, urged them to aim high and embrace resilience. “Failing is part of learning, but what matters is your determination to persevere until you reach your goals,” he remarked, drawing on the success story of Nigerian entrepreneur Aliko Dangote, whose journey exemplifies the rewards of hard work and dedication.
He encouraged students to leverage their talents to generate income, citing successful figures in the entertainment industry. “Every student has untapped potential. Work hard and make your parents proud—that is the best gift you can give them,” he advised.
Another parent representative emphasized the importance of faith and reliance on God for guidance. She stressed that nothing brings parents more joy than seeing their children excel academically and become self-sufficient. “Temptations and negative influences have no place in the pursuit of academic success,” she insisted.
Religious leaders took the opportunity to offer prayers and life skills training, reminding students of the importance of focus. Sheikh Ahmad Ahmad cautioned against romantic relationships for schoolgirls, warning that they can lead to distractions. “I feel offended to see Muslim schoolgirls face disciplinary actions. We must all work together—parents, teachers, and the community—to ensure our children behave consistently,” he stated.
The event also featured student performances and religious rituals, showcasing a vibrant school spirit. Mwenda expressed plans to enhance the curriculum by introducing the Chinese language, which has opened many doors for young people globally. With 44 Form Four students and 27 Form Two candidates, Greenlight High School maintains an excellent teacher-student ratio, ensuring personalized attention in both academic and extracurricular subjects.
In Tanzania, the status of secondary education for schoolgirls is a pressing concern, marked by challenges like limited resources and societal pressures. Yet, schools like Greenlight High are paving the way for a brighter future. This exceptional institution is setting a benchmark for holistic education by creating a nurturing environment that prioritizes not only academic success but also the mental and emotional well-being of its female students.
With unwavering dedication from educators, parents, and community leaders, these young women are inspired to reach for greatness. Greenlight High’s innovative approach, commitment to empowerment, and focus on personal growth are truly commendable, making it a beacon of hope for girls across the nation. As these students prepare for their exams, they carry with them the strength of a supportive community that believes in their potential to transform lives and uplift society.
