President Samia Suluhu Hassan has marked her birthday by extending support to children with special needs at Nsalala Primary School in Mbeya District, reinforcing her administration’s commitment to inclusive education and social welfare.
As part of the initiative, the President donated essential learning materials, including Braille papers, audio recording devices for students with hearing impairments, and laptop computers to enhance access to quality education for learners with disabilities.
The equipment was officially handed over on January 26, 2026, to the Mbeya District Executive Director, Erica Yegella, and the Head Teacher of Nsalala Primary School, on behalf of President Samia.
Speaking during the handover ceremony, Ms Yegella expressed gratitude to the President for remembering children with special needs on a personal and symbolic occasion.
“We are deeply grateful to President Samia for choosing to celebrate her birthday by supporting children with special needs. This gesture reflects her compassion and dedication to ensuring no child is left behind,” she said.
Nsalala Primary School Head Teacher, John Malila, said the school has 1,194 pupils, including 49 students with special learning needs.
He noted that the donation has already begun to transform the learning environment for these children.
“Previously, some children with disabilities faced serious barriers to attending school. Today, due to the President’s efforts, they have a renewed opportunity to learn, grow and participate fully in class,” Malila said.
He added that President Samia has also supported the construction of a dormitory at the school, which will benefit students from remote and disadvantaged backgrounds by allowing them to stay closer to learning facilities.
“The dormitory will improve attendance and academic focus, while the donated equipment will strengthen the work of our special education teacher to ensure these learners receive the support they deserve,” he said.
Malila further noted that the school continues to perform strongly in academic results and has set strategies to further enhance student performance.
Baraka Kajiba, a visually impaired student at the school, expressed appreciation to President Samia for the support, saying it has motivated him to work harder in his studies.
Meanwhile, the Mbeya District Early Childhood and Primary Education Officer, Tanu Kameka, described the donation as a clear demonstration of the President’s commitment to inclusive education.
“Nsalala is one of several inclusive schools in the district, alongside Mbalizi One, Juhudi and Nsongwi Juu. These modern assistive learning tools will significantly benefit both students and teachers,” Kameka said.