Aga Khan Nursery and Primary School, Dar es Salaam: A new chapter in early childhood education


20 February 2025

In January 2025, the Aga Khan Nursery and Primary School, Dar es Salaam proudly opened the doors to its newly refurbished nursery campus. This marks a transformative milestone in its journey to providing exceptional early childhood education. Nestled in the heart of the vibrant Upanga area, the school now features state-of-the-art facilities designed to inspire curiosity, creativity and holistic growth in young learners.

Aga Khan Nursery and Primary School, Dar es Salaam: A new chapter in early childhood education Aga Khan Nursery and Primary School, Dar es Salaam: A new chapter in early childhood education Aga Khan Nursery and Primary School, Dar es Salaam: A new chapter in early childhood education
Since its establishment in 1964, the school has played a vital role in shaping early childhood education in Dar es Salaam. Over the decades, it has built a legacy of excellence and innovation with impact in the community. The school has been a pioneer in introducing progressive teaching methodologies, fostering holistic development and nurturing generations of young learners who have gone on to make significant contributions to society. Its commitment to quality education, inclusivity and cultural preservation has made it a cornerstone of early childhood development in the region. The school’s alumni, many of whom are leaders in the medical, business, technology and many more fields, stand as a testament to its enduring influence and dedication to empowering future generations 

From the outset, all parents and staff were actively engaged and kept well-informed throughout the refurbishment’s planning phase. This collaborative approach was pivotal during the relocation of classrooms and learning spaces to ensure the refurbishment took place smoothly and without disruption to the students’ learning. 

Today, the renovated campus includes modern classrooms, a well-stocked library, a dedicated music room, a swimming pool, updated play areas and sensory-rich outdoor learning terraces. Classrooms are thoughtfully zoned to support diverse learning experiences, from art and science discovery areas to cosy reading nooks and roleplay spaces. Additionally, sustainable design elements, such as solar-equipped roofs and energy-efficient systems, reflect the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN)’s commitment to becoming net zero carbon by 2030. 

"Our aim is to provide experiences that nurture young learners' curiosity in a caring environment, reflecting our commitment to building a nation of responsible and confident leaders," said Dr Shelina Walli, Chief Executive Officer of the Aga Khan Education Service, Tanzania.  

These upgraded spaces were thoughtfully designed to complement the school’s inquiry-based learning approach through the International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum, where children are encouraged to explore, ask questions and develop critical thinking skills through hands-on experiences. By integrating play with structured learning, the nursery fosters curiosity, independence and a love for discovery. 

Parents and teachers alike have celebrated the new environment. Eleanora Mimi Shoo, a KG3 parent, shared, “We are thrilled with the new nursery! It’s wonderful to have a space that truly supports our children's growth and learning”. Delia Shuma, a KG2 teacher, added, “The classrooms are clean, bright and designed with engaging learning spaces, including cosy reading dens and outdoor water features”. 

The refurbishment of the nursery reflects the Aga Khan Nursery and Primary School, Dar es Salaam’s mission to provide quality education to nurture self-confident, open-minded and ethical individuals for generations to come. 

Photos (top to bottom):
  • The swimming pool now offers structured water-based learning programmes.
  • Student enjoying playtime in the vibrant and well-equipped play areas.
  • An increase in plants on patios in classrooms for hands-on play.