WHY BUILD A SECONDARY SCHOOL IN RURAL TANZANIA?

In 2002, school fees were abolished at the primary level (Kindergarten - 6th Grade) in Tanzania. While many families still struggle to afford all the provisions a child needs to attend primary school, the removal of the fees created a mass influx of children of all ages enrolling as first-year students. While the country has worked to construct and manage enough primary institutions, attrition of students from the primary to secondary level is still very high, with only about 20% of the population completing their 10th Grade coursework. Family annual earnings in rural areas average around USD $300, while the cost of a single year of schooling at a government secondary school (Grades 7th – 12th) can cost upwards of USD $500. There are also not enough institutions to accommodate the influx of students now completing their primary school education. This is where schools like Mungere are making an immediate impact on the communities they serve. Find out more by visiting The School.

WHAT CAREER OPPORTUNITIES DO STUDENTS HAVE FOLLOWING COMPLETION OF THEIR HIGH SCHOOL STUDIES AT MUNGERE SCHOOL?

At Red Sweater Project, we hope that each child’s educational journey provides him or her with the skills to explore whatever career path they dream of pursuing. We strive to graduate creative scholars interested in entrepreneurism and poised to begin careers in business management, hospitality, tourism or the financial industry.

HOW COMPETITIVE IS STUDENT ADMISSION?

Each year, around 200 students apply for one of the 40 spots at Mungere School. The criteria for admission includes two entrance exam scores, interviews and visits to each child’s home. Home visits serve to determine proximity to the school, ensuring that the student lives within the school boundary. During the home visit, school officials speak with parents and family members to confirm their support of the child’s education and commitment to their future.

DOES MY SUPPORT REALLY MAKE A DIFFERENCE?

Undoubtedly. With more than 125 students enrolled in Mungere School, donors are actively investing in the world’s leaders of tomorrow. Each enrolled student had no chance of attending school beyond the primary level and many felt their futures were insecure. The opportunity to enroll in Mungere School provides students with a sense of possibility and the education and skills to succeed in a 21st-century world.

HOW DO I BECOME A SPONSOR?

Visit the sponsorship page to learn more about becoming a sponsor.

HOW CAN I JOIN THE RED SWEATER PROJECT TEAM IN TANZANIA?

Review our open positions on our Volunteer page and send a current CV and cover letter detailing relevant experience to volunteer@redsweaterproject.org.

WHAT IF I'M INTERESTED IN VOLUNTEERING BUT A POSITION ISN'T LISTED IN MY AREA OF EXPERTISE?

From engineering to computer information technology to sustainable farming, Mungere School utilizes a broad range of skills from a worldwide team of dedicated professionals. If you’re interested in joining our team but you don’t see a role that matches your skills listed on the Volunteer page, email us at volunteer@redsweaterproject.com. We’d love to chat.

WHY DOESN'T RED SWEATER PROJECT ACCEPT MORE SHORT-TERM VOLUNTEERS?

The Volunteer Program at Red Sweater Project is all about creating maximum impact for our volunteers and for the children in the communities we serve. No doubt, short-term positions can provide meaningful experiences for volunteers, but our goal is to ensure our team is both highly skilled and adequately trained to make a difference.

IF I ALREADY HAVE PLANS TO VISIT TANZANIA, IS IT POSSIBLE TO VISIT CAMPUS?

We love hosting visitors on campus. To schedule a visit, contact us by emailing tours@redsweaterproject.org or by calling our office at +1 (971) 335-1328. If you are traveling with a tour operator, have them contact us and coordinate a visit that fits your itinerary.