Morogoro Regional Commissioner Adam Malima has directed that the Eco-Schools environmental conservation project be expanded to all districts in the Morogoro Region, citing its importance in shaping environmentally responsible citizens from an early age.
Malima issued the directive during a ceremony held to award Green Flags and Certificates to schools implementing the Eco-Schools programme in the Morogoro and Iringa regions.
He said the project is being implemented at a crucial time, as Tanzania is currently rolling out a new education curriculum that emphasizes practical learning and life skills.
“This project comes at the right time because it complements the implementation of the new education curriculum,” Malima said.
In a speech read on his behalf by Kilosa District Commissioner Shaka Hamdu Shaka, the Regional Commissioner stressed that environmental conservation should be integrated into the upbringing of children at all levels of education.
“Environmental protection must be part of children’s upbringing at all education levels, using participatory approaches that involve the entire community,” he said.
Speaking at the event, Tanzania Forest Conservation Group (TFCG) Director Charles Meshack said the Eco-Schools project is currently being implemented in 200 schools across five regions: Morogoro, Tanga, Iringa, Lindi, and Mtwara.
Meshack explained that apart from promoting environmental conservation, the project enables pupils to better understand what they learn in classrooms through practical activities.
“The Eco-Schools project is now being replicated by surrounding communities. These initiatives not only protect the environment but also help generate income. Schools themselves have established small income-generating projects,” he said.
Meshack, who also serves as the Eco-Schools Project Manager in Tanzania, revealed that 41 schools have been awarded Green Flags, while five schools received certificates after successfully meeting seven required environmental conservation standards.
Meanwhile, Dumila Primary School Head Teacher Faraja Tematema, whose school received a Green Flag, said the Eco-Schools project has significantly contributed to improved academic performance and reduced student absenteeism.
He added that the initiative has strengthened pupils’ understanding of environmental conservation by enabling them to learn through hands-on experience.
The Eco-Schools programme is internationally recognised for promoting sustainable development through education and empowering learners to become agents of positive environmental change within their communities.