Here in Tanzania, it is getting warmer by the day, the mango season has begun, and the rainy season is just around the corner. However, the months of September and October are also the time of graduation celebrations. In many schools, the completion of 7th grade is celebrated with great enthusiasm. After this, students typically continue their education at so-called boarding schools—similar to German boarding schools—where they live and study, preparing for the next stages of their academic journey.
This is also true for four children from the children's village who successfully completed their final exams this year. Together with the kindergarten teacher and a house mama, we two volunteers set off with two cakes we had baked the night before—richly decorated and filled with love—on our journey.
The celebration took place in a large, beautifully decorated event hall, which provided space for all the 7th-grade students, their parents and families, teachers, and other guests—including the school’s volunteers. All the 7th graders were elegantly dressed, wearing light blue outfits and jackets, creating a truly impressive and joyful sight.
Such a graduation ceremony can easily last six hours, starting at 10 a.m. and continuing well into the late afternoon. Yet it never felt dull, as guests were treated to a diverse and engaging program. There was plenty of singing and dancing, and each class had prepared something special—ranging from a short theatrical performance to a fashion show showcasing all kinds of professions common in Tanzania.
Of course, all the key participants had the opportunity to speak, including the school principal and the parent representatives, who congratulated the 7th graders on their achievement. However, handing out certificates during the graduation ceremony is not customary—these are sent by post in December, just before the long holiday break.
Around noon, a typical Tanzanian buffet was served, featuring a variety of rice and potato dishes, a wide selection of meats, delicious salads, and a sweet dessert spread. After the meal, the cakes were cut, and many photos were taken to capture the joyful moment.
Afterward, everyone danced joyfully once more, letting loose in celebration. For us, it meant loading up the car with the belongings of the four children, and then setting off on the journey back to the children's village—with mixed feelings: laughter and tears alike. On the ride home, some of us were already falling asleep from exhaustion, their eyes closing in tiredness after the exciting and long day.
The four were warmly welcomed back by a joyful crowd of children and their house mamas. By then, all fatigue and sadness had vanished completely.
Quickly grabbing their luggage, the children rushed off toward the children's houses, eager to spend the evening together and celebrate the special day.
After two weeks of rest at the children's village, the four have now set off once again to prepare for the upcoming school years at their boarding school, which they will begin in January after the long holiday break.
We send our warmest regards to Germany!
Jurena and Karla