Malama Secondary School in Mapinduzi hamlet, under the Mbalizi Town Authority in Mbeya Region, is facing a severe shortage of desks and chairs, a challenge that continues to disrupt effective teaching and learning for hundreds of students.
The situation was disclosed by the school’s Headmistress, Ms Neema Mwakimenya, while presenting a report during a visit by a member of the Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) National Executive Committee (NEC) from Mbeya Region, Mr Ndele Mwaselela.
She said the school currently enrolls 1,589 students 665 boys and 926 girls against furniture that is far from adequate.
Ms Mwakimenya explained that the school has a deficit of 673 desks, forcing some students to attend lessons without proper seating. She warned that the shortage compromises students’ comfort, concentration and academic performance.
Responding to the challenge, Mr Mwaselela donated 200 desks and 200 chairs to the school, a contribution expected to substantially ease the problem.
He pledged to work with local authorities to ensure the desks shortage is fully addressed in Nsalala Ward, stressing that parents and guardians should no longer be required to contribute financially for school furniture.
“I will meet councillors from Mbeya District Council, council experts and party leaders so that together we can set a clear education direction. We must have a shared vision to eliminate these challenges in our schools,” Mr Mwaselela said.
In a further boost to the school, the NEC member also committed to constructing 12 toilet stances for male students.
He additionally contributed TZS 1 million to support the installation of doors and windows for 11 other toilet stances currently under construction.
The move follows concerns raised by the school management over a shortage of 16 toilet stances for boys, a situation that poses potential health and safety risks.
Mbeya Regional Commissioner Mr Benno Malisa praised Mr Mwaselela for his intervention, describing it as a commendable example of leadership and social responsibility.
He said the support has eased the burden on parents and guardians, particularly as schools continue to accommodate students who joined Form One this year.
Mr Malisa also urged students to take good care of the donated furniture to ensure it serves the school community for many years.