Monday, November 25, 2013

MISSION ACCOMPLISHED

Congratulations to EdPowerment’s first sponsored student university graduate!


February 2009:  Thomas meets Moira Madonia, a U.S. volunteer at the Kilimahewa Educational Center.  He serves as her interpreter for English classes for one month.  Tom has graduated from High School “A” levels, Form 6.  However, having attended a rural school with few resources, he did not pass the National Exam.  He does not qualify for university studies.  His family lives in soil huts and has one cow, 4 goats and 2 chickens.  His father uses a hoe to cultivate an acre on which a few banana trees grow. Tom has no way to attend further studies or gain employment. But he walks several miles each day to teach math to the teenagers at the community school with no pay. He also assists international volunteers who come to teach English.

Tom's mother giving thanks in 2009 for his sponsorship
Tom with his parents in 2010

November 26, 2013:  Thomas  proudly receives his Bachelor of Science degree in Information Technology from Tumaini University, Moshi.



Sponsorship enabled Tom to re-enter higher education through a Certificate of Computer Science program at the Institute of Accountancy Arusha.  His own efforts yielded grades that gained him acceptance into a degree program at the Stefano Moshi Memorial University College (Tumaini).  Three years later, he can seek a professional IT job, degree in hand.

Hongera (Congratulations), Tom.  EdPowerment is so proud of you, your perseverance, and your dedication to serve others.  Thank you for continuing to teach math during all your breaks to our teens and thank you for leading our Kilimahewa Computer Training while you waited for your official degree papers.  We wish you many blessings as you forge your path ahead. 

The University graduate being introduced to the students at Kilimahewa  Community Center.
Students offer their congratulations.


Mama Grace, Rebecca, our head teacher, lead the party with a very special cake! 
             

Tom, you are a model to local youth who face similar obstacles.  You are why EdPowerment exists in Moshi, Tanzania.  

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