T.E.K.U.A.
Giving Teenagers a Chance in Life
Ally & Chris Outside TEKUA Building
Many teenagers in Tanzania are denied the chance of secondary education and only a small minority are lucky enough to be employed. The culture denies many young women the opportunity for education and employment and there is family pressure for them to work at home and help with subsistence farming. Many of the young men aspire to be safari guides in the local National Parks, to do this the ability to speak and understand English is essential.
History
English Students at TEKUA
Two local men, Chris and Ally, saw the plight of teenagers and decided to set up a centre where young people can learn basic skills in English, Art & Crafts and Computer Studies. They have recently purchased a new building in Usa River about 12 miles outside Arusha, at much personal sacrifice.
Current Situation
Art Students Inside New Workshop
There are 2 classrooms and a small Art workshop, which means the 120 students can only attend for 2 hours per day in shifts of 30 at a time, over a period of 12 months. Their aim is to expand vocational training opportunities and we have created a link with Mt Meru Tour Guide School and Help to Self Help in order to help some of the young people learn safari guiding and catering skills respectively.
TEKUA Art Building & Kitchen
We have also sponsored 3 girls from TEKUA to attend secondary school at Ndoombo, read their stories here.
T.E.K.U.A. has a small outlet nearby to sell paintings and crafts. Their sales help to fund the centre. If you want to see examples of their work, please click here.
Helping T.E.K.U.A.
How you can help
- Become a "Special Friend" by paying regular monthly donations.
- Sponsor a student for vocational training (from as little as £100)
- Purchase a painting or carving
- Make a donation towards art materials
- Volunteer to teach English, Computer Studies or Art & Craft
Please contact us for more details or visit the donations page.