Iringa projects to cut school walking distance

IRINGA: A BRIGHTER path to education is taking shape for children in Kilolo and Iringa districts following a government investment of more than 424m/- in a new primary school and girls’ hostel to shorten walking distances and enhance pupils’ safety.

The investment has financed construction of Kidika Pre-Primary and Primary School in Ruaha Mbuyuni Ward, Kilolo District and a hostel for 80 girls at Lupembelwasenga Secondary School in Lyamgungwe Ward, Iringa District.

In Kilolo, the government spent more than 284m/- to construct Kidika School, bringing education services closer to communities whose children previously have to walk long distances to school.

Head teacher of Kidika Pre-Primary and Primary School, Mr Justine Mgina said the school has helped to address the distance challenge while improving the learning and teaching environment.

“Some pupils previously walked long distances to and from school, a situation that exposed them to safety risks and affected their educational progress,” he said.

In Iringa District, the government invested 140m/- to construct a hostel with capacity for 80 girls at Lupembelwasenga Secondary School.

Head Teacher of Lupembelwasenga Secondary School, Ms Edda Kutika said the facility would reduce the burden on girls who previously walked about nine kilometres to and from school each day.

She said the hostel was also expected to help reduce absenteeism and teenage pregnancies.

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“The hostel cost 140m/-, funded by the central government. Community members also contributed by collecting 70 trips of stones,” she said.

Iringa Regional Commissioner, Mr Kheri James, who inspected and launched the two projects during separate visits, said the investments addressed a common challenge despite being implemented in different councils.

“The key issue is removing distance as a barrier to children accessing safe education and better learning environments,” he said.

Mr James said while Kidika School brings education closer to children’s homes, the Lupembelwasenga hostel provides a solution for pupils whose school is far from their homes, particularly girls who may face greater risks during long daily journeys.

“With an investment of more than 424m/-, the government has not simply added school buildings, it has invested in addressing challenges that can affect access to education and pupils’ safety,” he said.

At Lupembelwasenga Secondary School, Mr James directed that the hostel should be completed by October 15, 2026, saying funds and construction materials were available.

He also directed TANESCO to ensure electricity poles reach the hostel site on time.

Lyamgungwe Ward Councillor, Mr Alex Malangalila thanked the government for the hostel and called for construction of a laboratory and extension of electricity infrastructure to the facility.

He also commended a resident who donated 50 acres for construction of the school, saying community participation remained important in implementing development projects.