Project Tanzania 2026 

Partnership, Education and a Transformative Student Experience 

Delivered in partnership with Strathroy Dairy Ltd, the project has developed a very strong relationship between St Mary’s and school communities in Tanzania. The 2026 programme marked the fifth year of collaboration, with four St Mary’s BEd students – Tommy, Lia, Ryan and Katie-Jane – undertaking an approximately month-long study and volunteering experience during the summer. 

At its heart, Project Tanzania seeks to provide meaningful support to partner schools while providing St Mary’s student teachers an exceptional opportunity to experience education within a different social and cultural context. It reflects the College’s commitment to forming teachers who understand the wider contribution education can make to individuals and communities. 

During their time in Tanzania, the students became part of the daily life of their host schools, working alongside local teachers and engaging directly with pupils. 

The project has established relationships with schools in both the Dar es Salaam and Iringa regions, enabling successive groups of St Mary’s students to contribute to school life while learning from Tanzanian teachers, pupils and communities. 

A particular focus of Project Tanzania 2026 was the further enhancement of ICT provision. Building on the work of previous years, the project sought to improve access to technology and strengthen opportunities for pupils and staff to use digital resources within teaching and learning. 

This practical investment gives the partnership an impact that extends beyond the duration of the students’ visit. The project is not simply an overseas placement, but an ongoing relationship through which educational support can continue to develop in response to the needs of the schools. 

Central to the continuing success of Project Tanzania has been the College’s relationship with Strathroy Dairy Ltd, longstanding supporters and funders of the initiative. 

Michael Cunningham of Strathroy Dairy Ltd has played an important role in developing the project, maintaining links with the schools in Tanzania and working closely with St Mary’s in preparing students for their visits. 

Michael Cunningham said: 

“Strathroy Dairy is extremely proud of its longstanding involvement with Project Tanzania and of what has been achieved through our partnership with St Mary’s. 

“Each year we have been able to build upon what has gone before, and the additional focus on ICT this year is another example of providing practical support that can make a lasting difference. 

“It is also wonderful to see what the experience gives back to the St Mary’s students. They return with a different perspective on education, community and the opportunities we sometimes take for granted.” 

Project Tanzania was equally transformative for the four participating students. 

Alongside their work in schools, Tommy, Lia, Ryan and Katie-Jane had the opportunity to immerse themselves in Tanzanian life and culture. Their time included visits to local communities and markets, a safari experience, and a memorable trip associated with Mount Kilimanjaro. 

The warmth of the welcome received from the host communities was another defining feature of the visit, including the memorable hospitality provided by Mama Khan. 

For the students, the experience extended far beyond an overseas placement. Living and working within another culture, developing relationships with pupils and teachers and adapting professionally and personally to unfamiliar circumstances provided a genuinely life-changing experience which will continue to influence them as they progress towards careers in teaching. 

From their work in partner schools and engagement with pupils and staff to exploring local communities, markets and the landscapes and wildlife of Tanzania, the students captured many memorable moments from their month abroad. 

Project Tanzania strongly reflects the mission and values of St Mary’s University College. It brings together education, service, partnership and international engagement, while giving students an opportunity to put their learning and values into practice. 

Its impact works in both directions. For partner schools, the project provides educational support, resources and opportunities for collaboration. For St Mary’s students, it develops professional confidence, adaptability, cultural awareness and a deeper appreciation of the transformative power of education. 

Professor Peter Finn, Principal of St Mary’s University College, said: 

“Project Tanzania represents St Mary’s at its very best. It combines our commitment to education with service, partnership and an outward-looking international perspective. 

“I am particularly grateful to Michael Cunningham and Strathroy Dairy Ltd for their longstanding commitment and generosity, and to our partner schools and communities in Tanzania for the tremendous welcome they continue to extend to our students. 

“This year’s emphasis on ICT has allowed us to build further upon the impact of previous visits and contribute in a practical way to teaching and learning within the schools. 

“For Tommy, Lia, Ryan and Katie-Jane, the experience will undoubtedly remain with them throughout their lives and careers.” 

The successful conclusion of Project Tanzania 2026 provides another strong foundation upon which St Mary’s, Strathroy Dairy and the participating schools can continue to build. 

Five years into the partnership, its continuing strength demonstrates what can be achieved through sustained collaboration and a shared commitment to education – creating meaningful impact for pupils and teachers in Tanzania while offering St Mary’s students an international experience that extends their education far beyond the College campus.