The contrast could hardly be greater. Visiting Lhanbryde Primary School in Moray is such a joy. A modern, well equipped school with committed teachers and bright and eager pupils. A visit to Mayega Primary School is so different. The teachers are there, trying to be positive despite their herculean challenge and with bright eyed children eager to learn. So what are the challenges? Essentially, it is down to money and resources. Tanzania has built many schools in response to the Millennium Goals but funding them is an entirely different issue. For example, it is only in 2016 that President Magafuli warned local district commissioners that if every child in primary school didn’t have a desk by the end of the year then heads would roll!

The position at Mayega Primary School is typical and Lhandyde has stepped in to provide support. Fundraising has allowed chalk to be delivered and Mayega has been able to take part in inter-school sports because two footballs and a volleyball have been provided. Can you believe it?

But well done to the staff and children at Lhandryde Primary, who are continuing to support their sister school.

Busega Scotland has a particular interest in Mayega Primary, as so many of the Mayega Children’s Centre children go there and improving educational attainment is a clear priority. Maybe small steps are all we can take but they do make a difference.

The balls being handed over to the P.E. teacher, Mr Gervas Yohana, in the Mayega Primary School staff room by Rev Gadlord Deuli.