When the first case of COVID-19 was detected in Arusha, Tanzania, on March 16, the government responded quickly, closing primary and secondary schools the next day. Schools and universities remained closed in Tanzania for three months.
Universities resumed classes in June, and primary and secondary schools reopened in July 2020. Some students were able to use text messages and WhatsApp to continue distance learning during the closures.
Iringa Diocese secondary schools attended by many of the students we sponsor report that they will resume studies with none of the usual holiday breaks for the remainder of the year, so that students will be able to catch up and complete their course of study before the start of the next school year in January.
Handwashing stations are now a common sight at schools, in the markets, and at the Huruma Center orphanage (pictured).
On June 26, nearly 40 leaders from companion synod relationships across the United States and Tanzania gathered via Zoom to discuss the impacts of the coronavirus in Tanzania. A full summary of the meeting is available here and includes commentary from ELCA medical missionaries as well as representatives from other ELCA synods.
