The Parliamentary Committee on Local Government Authorities (TAMISEMI) has instructed the leadership of Muleba District in the Kagera Region to ensure that the construction of Biija Secondary School and Amali (Technical) Mubunda Secondary School is completed by April 2025, allowing students to start their education without delay.
“These schools are being built to address the long travel distances that students face when coming from remote areas,” said Justin Nyamoga, Chairman of the Parliamentary Committee on TAMISEMI, during his visit to inspect the construction.
“Biija Secondary School is being built specifically to reduce the travel distance for students coming from distant locations.
” He emphasized that once the schools are completed, teachers must be deployed swiftly, and students should begin their lessons promptly.
The government is fully funding the construction of these schools under the Secondary Education Quality Improvement Project (SEQUIP), with each school receiving TZS 584.2 million.
The funds will be used to build the necessary infrastructure and provide facilities that will support quality education.
The construction is being managed through the 'Force Account' method, allowing local authorities to have direct control and oversight of the project.
Hon. Nyamoga also highlighted the need for the relocation of students who currently walk long distances to other schools.
“Students who travel long distances should be moved to the new school to make education more accessible to them,” he added.
This shift will not only reduce the strain on students but will also encourage regular school attendance and improve overall educational outcomes.
Zainab Katimba, the Deputy Minister of TAMISEMI, who spoke on behalf of the Minister of State, Mohamed Mchengerwa, echoed the importance of completing the construction on time. “Delays in projects are not acceptable,” Katimba said.
She urged the local leaders to ensure that the schools are finished as scheduled and that the infrastructure is well-maintained to benefit future generations.
In addition to ensuring timely completion, Katimba stressed the importance of effective management of the construction projects.
“I have instructed the Muleba District Director to strengthen the use of the National Electronic Procurement System (NEST) to avoid delays in procurement,” she stated.
The NEST system is designed to streamline the procurement of materials and services for government projects, enabling authorities to manage resources effectively and keep the construction process on track.
The new schools are part of the government's broader initiative to enhance access to education in rural areas, where many students face challenges such as long commutes and inadequate facilities.
By constructing Biija and Amali Mubunda Secondary Schools, the government aims to provide students with better opportunities to learn closer to their homes, reducing the barriers to education and improving overall school attendance rates.
“These schools are more than just buildings—they represent an investment in the future of our children,” said Nyamoga.
“By reducing the distance students have to travel, we are making education more accessible and ensuring that students remain in school.
This will ultimately lead to better academic performance and a brighter future for our youth.”
The completion of these schools by April 2025 will have a lasting impact on the educational opportunities available to students in Muleba District.
The commitment of local leaders and the government's support will help ensure that these schools continue to serve the needs of the community for generations to come.
By providing a better learning environment and improving access to education, the new schools will play a key role in shaping the future of the region’s young learners.