By Zamda George, CMU

The University of Dar es Salaam (UDSM) has demonstrated its unwavering commitment to community development by constructing and officially handing over a modern sanitation facility to Changanyikeni Primary School in Kinondoni District recently.

The newly built toilet block, valued at TZS 37.6 million, comprises 13 latrines, including facilities for students with disabilities, and is expected to significantly improve health and hygiene standards at the school.

Speaking at the handover ceremony, UDSM Vice Chancellor, Prof. William A.L. Anangisye, emphasized the importance of the project as part of the University's Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programme.

“We have taken up this initiative voluntarily as part of our CSR, but it is also our responsibility to contribute to the community. The university will continue to fulfill its obligations in alignment with the ruling party's Chama cha Mapinduzi agenda”, said Prof. Anangisye. 

He further reiterated UDSM's commitment to extending support beyond the sanitation facility and said that the University support will not end up with such toilets only. “We plan to also assist in constructing classrooms, improving the kitchen, and enhancing the overall school environment to ensure Changanyikeni Primary School is at par with others in terms of appearance and facilities”.

Prof. Anangisye also drew attention to the need for further improvements of the school environment. 

“The current school environment is far from ideal. The classrooms are outdated, and the area designated for cooking students' meals is unsafe, with people crossing and conducting small businesses. I request the Kinondoni Municipal Council to build a fence to secure the area for the safety of our children”, he urged.

A call for continued support from Kinondoni Municipality

The Vice-Chancellor's sentiments were echoed by Mr. Mtundi Nyamuhangwa, the Secondary School Education Officer for Kinondoni Municipality, who represented the District Commissioner during the event, who thanked UDSM for their support and acknowledged the impact the new facility would have in addressing some of the school’s pressing issues. 

“We are grateful to the University of Dar es Salaam for this generous donation. These new toilets will help alleviate the burden on the school, which previously had only 18 toilets for 807 students”, said Mr. Nyamuhangwa.

He further assured the University that the municipality would ensure proper maintenance of the facilities as it “has a budget allocated for infrastructure rehabilitation. We will utilise those funds to repaint and maintain the facilities, ensuring that they remain clean and in good condition.

Changanyikeni Primary School's Head Teacher, Ms. Evelyne Ndibalema, expressed her deep appreciation for the support from UDSM, noting that the new sanitation facilities would greatly ease the burden on the school.

“The new toilet units are a significant relief for our school. Previously, we had only 18 toilets for over 800 students, and this new block will help improve the sanitation situation considerably,” said Ms. Ndibalema.

Ms. Ndibalema shared the school's growth story since its establishment in 1982, when it started with just 32 students, two teachers, and a single classroom. Today, the school has expanded to accommodate 807 students—392 girls and 415 boys—with 16 teachers, 15 of whom are female. 

“Our school continues to grow in student number each year, increasing from 787 students last year to 807 this year. However, despite having enough desks thanks to the support from parents, guardians, and the community, we still face significant challenges, particularly with the teachers' toilet facilities. All 16 teachers currently share one toilet,” she explained.

The students of Changanyikeni Primary School also voiced their concerns, appealing to the government for essential teaching tools such as computers, photocopiers, and printers. They also highlighted the shortage of classrooms, teachers' offices, and a proper sports field, which they said hinders the development of their talents in sports.

A step toward improved learning conditions

The newly handed-over sanitation facility includes seven toilets for girls (one of which includes a safe room), two for students with disabilities, and four for boys, along with two designated urinals. The improved sanitation conditions are expected to create a healthier and more conducive learning environment for the students, which aligns with UDSM’s goal of promoting education and community welfare.

The donation of the sanitation facility is a testament to UDSM’s role as the "People’s University," dedicated to public service, teaching, and research. The university's actions underscore its mission to be a force for positive change in society, ensuring that all children can learn in a safe and healthy environment.