our programs

Education makes it possible for students to thrive today and dream about tomorrow.

In Tanzania, early childhood education isn’t part of the public school system, so families who want to send their children to preschool must cover the cost themselves. Primary education is publicly funded, but even then, many students face barriers like the cost of uniforms, supplies, and transport. These extra costs can make staying in school a challenge. Secondary school adds another layer of difficulty, requiring both exam qualifications and school fees.

At Toa Tumaini Foundation, we believe that every child deserves the opportunity to learn, grow, and reach their full potential. That’s why we offer a free preschool program and ongoing support to help students access both primary and secondary education, all at no cost to their families. Our goal is to ensure that access to quality education is based on potential, not on ability to pay.

Learn more about how our programs
are helping students thrive below.

Hope academy preschool

The early years of a child’s education set the stage for everything that comes next. In Tanzania, preschool isn’t part of the public education system, so access often depends on whether a family can afford private fees. Many families have to make the choice between preschool and household expenses. Yet studies consistently show that a strong start in preschool leads to better outcomes in primary and secondary school,  including higher attendance and lower dropout rates.

At Toa Tumaini Foundation, we’re working to bridge that gap by offering free, high-quality preschool for children ages 2–6. Our newly constructed school is more than just a classroom; it’s a space where children can learn, play, and grow in a safe and supportive environment.

Our team includes three dedicated teachers, a cook/groundskeeper, a security guard, and a bus driver, all working together to care for and educate our youngest learners. Each student receives:

  • Daily transportation to and from school
  • A school uniform and all necessary supplies
  • One nutritious meal and a healthy snack each day
  • A full day of structured learning, play, and rest 

Most importantly, they leave with a strong foundation, socially, emotionally, and academically,  that supports success in the years ahead.

primary school

Primary school in Tanzania spans seven years, from Standard 1 through Standard 7, similar to grades 1–7 in the U.S. The government provides free tuition during this stage, making it more accessible to families across the country. But while tuition is covered, students still need essentials like supplies, uniforms, and meals. These costs can add up and make consistent attendance difficult for many.

Equally important, students must pass a national exam at the end of primary school to continue to secondary education. That makes access to quality learning during these years especially critical.

Toa Tumaini Foundation supports students throughout their primary school journey by providing:

  • School supplies and uniforms
  • Help with the enrollment process
  • A nutritious daily meal
  • Extra tutoring to strengthen learning
  • Health insurance for peace of mind

With this support, students are better equipped to thrive in school and take that all-important next step toward secondary education.

secondary school

 In Tanzania, secondary school covers four years, Form I through Form IV, similar to grades 8–11 in the U.S. Unlike primary school, secondary education is not publicly funded, meaning families must cover all associated costs, including school fees, supplies, and uniforms.

Even for students who pass the national exam at the end of primary school, financial barriers can prevent them from continuing their education. As a result, only about 27% of Tanzanian students go on to attend secondary school.

Toa Tumaini Foundation helps remove those barriers so students can stay focused on learning and building their futures. Our secondary school program provides:

  • Full coverage of school fees
  • School supplies and uniforms
  • Help navigate the enrollment process
  • A nutritious daily meal
  • Health insurance

     

With this support, students don’t have to put their education on hold due to financial strain; they’re free to continue learning, growing, and preparing for the next chapter of their lives.

advanced level secondary school

The final stage of secondary education in Tanzania, known as Advanced Level studies, includes Form V and Form VI, and is similar to junior college in the U.S. During these two years, students focus on three core subjects in preparation for university or professional training.

Reaching this level is a significant achievement. Only about 7% of students in Tanzania advance to Form V, and even fewer complete the full program. For many, both academic demands and financial pressures increase during this stage, making continued support all the more important. Toa Tumaini Foundation helps students stay on track by providing the resources they need to succeed.

Our Advanced Level support includes:

  • Coverage of school fees
  • School supplies and uniforms
  • Enrollment and transportation assistance
  • A daily nutritious meal
  • Health insurance 

With this support, students can focus on deepening their knowledge, preparing for national exams, and shaping their future with confidence.

he dreams of being the President of Tanzania

Meet S: one of the very first students to join Toa Tumaini Foundation. He started with us back in 2012 as a bright-eyed nursery schooler and has grown up within our programs. Today, he’s the very first TTF student to reach university, a milestone we’re incredibly proud of.

From the beginning, S has shown himself to be dedicated, responsible, and deeply focused. Beneath his quiet, serious exterior is a young man who loves soccer, learning, and sharing a good laugh. He’s also a big dreamer; one of his long-term goals is to become the president of Tanzania.

Over the past thirteen years, TTF has supported S not just in his day-to-day learning, but in imagining what’s possible for his future. Stories like his are why we do what we do, and your support makes it all happen.

When you give to TTF, you’re not just funding education, you’re investing in the dreams and potential of students like S.

Making an impact is simple:

1. Decide to support
the education of Tanzanian youth.

2. Choose to join
the Village or make a one-time donation.

3. See the difference
and
feel great about your gift.