Safe School Clubs strengthen education and morality: The journey of teacher Christina

UNESCO believes positive education is achieved when teachers and schools empower learners to build healthy relationships, promote well-being, and prevent violence through engaging lessons and extracurricular activities.

In Kinondoni District, Dar es Salaam, resides an experienced teacher with a deep passion for children and education: Christina Kaduri, 46, who has dedicated 20 years to teaching in Primary Schools.

Christina is a firm believer in the power of education as a means to learn and adjust to an ever-changing world. Her genuine passion for guiding and nurturing children, both academically and morally, led her to the teaching profession.

As a third-grade teacher, Christina has a particular interest in Arts and Sports, viewing it as an excellent approach to nurture talents and instill moral values in her pupils. She has realized that pupils enjoy coming to school due to the safe atmosphere, the meals provided, and the various opportunities offered at school for the children growth. However, despite these efforts, challenges persist. Many pupils come from difficult backgrounds, some reside in hazardous valleys during the rainy seasons, while others deal with violence or lack essential school supplies. Nonetheless, Christina remains undeterred in supporting the children as much as she can.

In partnership with UNESCO and the President’s Office, Regional Administration and Local Government (PO-RALG) through the "Safe Schools" initiative, Christina and her colleagues have established safe school clubs that have sparked significant change. 

"These clubs have enabled students to express themselves, make positive choices, build confidence, and even decrease absenteeism"

Christina KaduriSchool Teacher, Kinondoni District

The program has also had a positive impact on Christina personally; she has evolved into a more effective parent, positively influencing the children in her community. Training on child rights, safety, life skills, and sexual protection has equipped her with valuable knowledge that she utilizes to positively change the lives of others.

Looking ahead, she aims to ensure quality education continues alongside the integral role of sports in learning. "It’s vital for young individuals to understand their health and well-being to reach their goals," she asserts.

With unwavering dedication and a long-term vision, Christina Kaduri stands as a remarkable teacher who influences not only her pupils in the classroom but also nurtures a generation rooted in mutual respect, security, and hope for a bright future.

UNESCO’s O3 project, in collaboration with PO-RALG is supporting implementation of the Integrated safe school initiative using a whole school approach in 20 primary and secondary schools in Tanzania. This initiative aims to support the government's efforts to promote a safe learning environment through building skills for healthy, respectful, and nonviolent relationships in Tanzania schools.