Exploring education and community engagement

As part of the efforts to promote community engagement and broaden the horizons of the students, the Aga Khan Academy Maputo organised an educational outreach programme to three public schools in Matola throughout November.

The programme aimed to give Grade 9 students a unique opportunity to understand the education system in Mozambique, specifically in the Matola region. It also aimed to raise awareness about the needs of the local community and inspire students to brainstorm their future personal projects and how they can work on with their fellow citizens to support them.

Ms Sumeya Taquidir, science teacher and personal project coordinator at the Academy in Maputo, stressed the importance of the field trip as one of the ways the students can improve their leadership skills.

"This field trip helps our students get a better understanding of the education system in Mozambique as well as learn about our local community and their needs," Ms Sumeya said.

The students were divided into three groups, and each group visited a different school: the Matola Sede Primary School, 30 de Janeiro Secondary School and Bagamoyo Primary School. During their visits, the students engaged in various activities, such as attending a class, orienting a physical education lesson and playing football. They interacted with teachers and students, gaining valuable insights into the daily life of the schools.

“It was a good experience to be able to not only ask questions but also interact with the students, play with them and to get to know more about how the education system works in Mozambique,” said Grade 9 student Charmaine Mazezewa. "This field trip has inspired me to contribute positively to education, knowing that not everyone is afforded the same opportunities,” said Grade 9 student Keanu Mendes. “One thing I could see was that, despite the conditions, the children were having fun learning.”