More than 100 young people from disadvantaged backgrounds have gone on to pursue higher education after receiving scholarships through Paradise Mission in the five years since the institution was established.
The beneficiaries have secured opportunities to study at universities and colleges in different parts of Tanzania, including St Augustine University of Tanzania (SAUT), the University of Dar es Salaam (UDSM), and institutions in Dodoma and Zanzibar.
Paradise Mission Head Teacher Rozalina Mtumbuka said the scholarships were part of an initiative by the institution's Executive Director, Ndele Mwaselela, to give young people from financially challenging backgrounds a chance to continue with their education.
She spoke on September 26, 2026, during the institution's fifth graduation ceremony and celebrations marking five years since its establishment.
“Over the past five years, more than 100 young people have had the opportunity to continue with higher education at various institutions through scholarships provided by the school's director,” Ms Mtumbuka said.
She said the programme was intended to help beneficiaries acquire education and skills that could enable them to become self-reliant and improve their livelihoods.
Beyond classroom education, Ms Mtumbuka said Paradise Mission also equips students with practical skills, including tailoring and cooking, which can provide alternative pathways to earning a living.
“Our aim is to ensure that students leave with knowledge and practical skills that can help them address challenges in life and contribute to their communities,” she said.
She added that the institution had also supported community initiatives in areas such as education, water, roads and street lighting as part of its contribution to surrounding communities.
The initiative comes as access to higher education remains a challenge for some young people from low-income households, particularly when families struggle to meet tuition and other education-related costs.
Speaking at the graduation ceremony, guest of honour Father Olivarius Kalupale urged parents to prioritise their children's education and ensure they study in environments that support both academic development and moral values.
“Education comes at a cost. Parents should give their children the opportunity to study and ensure they choose the right environment, including institutions such as Paradise Mission, where academic education is accompanied by faith,” Father Kalupale said.
Paradise Mission officials said the institution would continue combining academic education with practical skills as it seeks to prepare students for further education, employment and self-reliance.