Holy Land English Medium Nursery and Primary School in Makongolosi, Chunya District, has become a symbol of academic excellence in Mbeya Region, earning the district national recognition and pride.
Behind this success is the school’s founder and director, Mr. Lawena Nsonda, whose vision has transformed the education landscape in the area.
Speaking during the school’s second Standard Seven graduation and fifth nursery graduation held on August 28, 2025, guest of honor Mr. Masaga Kaloli praised Nsonda for his foresight in establishing a school that has consistently outperformed expectations.
He admitted that many parents, himself included, were initially doubtful about private schools, especially English-medium institutions.
“As parents, we used to mislead each other, claiming these schools offered no real value. Some of it was simply envy, because we studied in traditional environments with chalk and dusters. But today, things are different. If you want quality education in a calm, well-prepared environment, this is the place to be,” said Kaloli.
Holy Land’s achievements have changed perceptions not only in Chunya but also beyond. The school has ranked first nationally among English-medium schools for two years in a row, attracting pupils from across Tanzania, including Zanzibar, Arusha, Katavi, Iringa, Mbeya, Mwanza, and Tabora.
“This school represents us well at the national level. Its reputation speaks for itself, and this is thanks to the creativity and determination of its founder, Mr. Nsonda. Today, Chunya stands tall because of him,” added Kaloli, who is also a prominent miner in the district.
He called on local investors and residents to support Nsonda, describing him as a long-time businessman who started with a retail shop before moving into education.
“He has given us pride as Chunya residents. It is now up to us to help him take this vision further,” said Kaloli.
According to the head teacher, Mr. Yona Mwakalinga, the school began humbly in 2019 with only two pupils, one teacher, and a single building containing two classrooms and an office.
By 2020, it had secured full registration (EM.18174) as a nursery and day primary school with 65 pupils.
The school expanded in 2021 after receiving approval to offer boarding services, and now enrolls 657 pupils. Its rapid growth has made it one of the most sought-after institutions in the region.
However, despite the impressive progress, Holy Land faces pressing challenges. Mwakalinga noted that construction of a four-storey block to house classrooms, offices, dormitories, and a modern hall is only 20 percent complete.
The school also faces shortages of textbooks, five staff houses, and 640 computers required for ICT lessons.
“To bridge these gaps, we need over 380 million shillings. So far, we have managed to raise about 427 million shillings, but we still need more support to reach the level we are aiming for,” Mwakalinga said.
For parents, the school has become more than a learning institution it is a source of hope and pride. Its success demonstrates how vision, determination, and community support can turn a small idea into a national model of excellence.
