The Aga Khan Nursery and Primary School,
Dar es Salaam

EDGE is a platform of the International Finance Corporation (IFC), which aims to mainstream green buildings to mitigate the effects of climate change. According to the IFC, the EDGE certification is awarded to outstanding buildings demonstrating resource efficiency of 20–40% in energy, water and embodied energy materials when compared to other local benchmarks. 

From the earliest stages, sustainability was placed at the heart of the nursery section’s recent refurbishment, which was completed in December 2024. Every design decision, from structural planning to the selection of materials, was purposefully aligned with green building principles. These efforts have resulted in a modern and environmentally responsible campus which uses significantly less energy and water. The school now operates with advanced features such as high-efficiency LED lighting, water-saving fixtures and the ability to run on 100% solar power during daylight hours, all of which contribute to exceptional operational savings and long-term environmental stewardship. 

The school’s green infrastructure goes beyond reducing its environmental footprint; it also enhances the learning experience for students and teachers. Classrooms designed with natural light, improved ventilation and balanced temperatures create healthier and more engaging spaces for young learners. Research and experience show that such environments improve concentration, promote well-being and support better teaching outcomes, making sustainability not just a building feature but an important part of the educational journey. 

“This certification demonstrates our commitment to creating spaces where children feel inspired, safe and connected to nature,” said Early Years Coordinator Mubanga Mulenga. “The refurbished nursery section is designed to nurture curiosity and exploration while reducing environmental impact. By integrating sustainability into everyday learning, we give children real opportunities to observe, question and engage with concepts that build lifelong awareness and responsibility.”  

The EDGE certification reflects more than infrastructure; it speaks to the Aga Khan Education Service, Tanzania’s broader aim for responsible stewardship and long-term environmental leadership. As part of the Aga Khan Development Network’s wider sustainability ambitions, including its aim to become net zero carbon by 2030, the nursery section stands as a model for how early years learning environments can be both innovative and environmentally conscious. 

This recognition marks a proud moment for the Aga Khan Education Service, Tanzania, which will also aim to achieve the EDGE certification for its secondary school that is currently under construction in phases. It also reinforces its mission to create educational spaces which nurture both young learners and the planet they will inherit.