Celebrating a Milestone: Mwaya Secondary School’s EG&EB Graduation Day
By Emanuel Chikoti, Fides Magige, and Saraphiner Urio
The air was filled with excitement and pride as students, teachers, staff and guests gathered at Mwaya Secondary School to celebrate a significant milestone—the graduation of the Form 4 class from Empowered Girls and Enlightened Boys Club. The July sun shone brightly on the school grounds, reflecting the radiant smiles of the students who were about to embark on the next chapter of their lives.
The ceremony began with a heartfelt prayer, setting the tone for a day filled with gratitude and reflection. The graduates entered the venue celebrating, dressed in their neatly pressed uniforms. Performances added to the celebration, including a beautiful song by the EG&EB Form Four choir, student skits, and a show from the Scout Mwaya EB team.
One of the highlights of the day was an impact story shared by an EB alumnus, Clinton, who graduated Mwaya Secondary in 2020. Now employed at the school as an intern Chemistry teacher, he spoke about how the school shaped his life and prepared him for the challenges ahead. His words resonated deeply with the graduates, reminding them of the strong foundation they had built at Mwaya. Using the chemical process of titration as metaphor, Clinton said “Just like in a titration, your journey through Form Four has been a gradual process. Today, as you graduate, it’s as if that final drop has been added. The color of your future is changing, signaling the completion of one phase and the beginning of another. This moment is the result of all the drops you have added over the years, and it’s a sign that you’re ready for what comes next.”
Among the graduates was Voice, a quiet but determined student who overcame many obstacles to reach this day. She shared her story describing how the EG mentorship programs had given her the confidence to believe in herself and her abilities, and to have a vision of greatness. “I never thought I would make it this far,” she said. “This is the beginning of my vision of becoming a lawyer. I am so inspired by the Honorable Dr. Tulia Ackson (the Speaker of the National Assembly of Tanzania), and I hope that one day I will live that vision in my community.”
A representative of the Kyela District Education Office attended the graduation ceremony. He appreciated the work of the Empowered Girls and Enlightened Boys clubs in supporting the government efforts towards improving education in Kyela, and requested that the organization expand its reach to other schools. This recognition of EG&EB’s positive impact on students at Mwaya is meaningful and rewarding.
An incredible 92 EG&EB graduates received certificates of accomplishment for their four-year journey in the club. Outstanding students were awarded for their academic achievements, discipline, and good attendance. All 400 students received their monthly supplies of sanitary pads, underwear, soap, toothpaste, and toothbrushes.
The day ended with feelings of accomplishment and hope. As graduates took pictures with their certificates, they symbolized the closing of one chapter and the beginning of another. Mwaya Secondary School’s graduation was not just a celebration of EG&EB achievement, but a testament to the strength, resilience, and potential of its students.
To support the Empowered Girls and Enlightened Boys clubs, click the link below to donate.