Aga Khan Education Service, Tanzania participates in Utafiti Elimu Tanzania 2025
The Aga Khan Education Service (AKES), Tanzania made notable contributions at the Utafiti Elimu Tanzania 2025, reinforcing its commitment to climate and environmental education through innovative school-based practices. This year’s conference focused on four key themes: Dropout, Retention and Reintegration; Teacher Preparedness; Climate, Environment and Education; and Technical and Vocational Education and Training and Human Capacity Development.
Utafiti Elimu Tanzania 2025 – meaning “Education Research Tanzania 2025” in Swahili – was held from 25-26 February 2025 at the Institute of Tourism, State University of Zanzibar, Mahuburi campus. The event brought together government officials, researchers, policymakers and educators from various institutions to explore transformative approaches in education
Representing AKES, Tanzania were Dr Shelina Walli, Chief Executive Officer; Shehzeen Sunderji, Curriculum Enhancement Coordinator; Luis Cid-Guzman, Primary Teacher Development Lead; and Abubakar Nyenga, Commerce and Economics Teacher for the National Curriculum. In partnership with the Aga Khan Foundation, Tanzania, the team chaired panels, moderated sessions and made presentations under the theme “Climate, Environment and Education”. The opportunity enabled them to showcase AKES, Tanzania’s best practices in public-private partnerships and the integration of sustainability literacies in the curriculum.
The conference also introduced forward-thinking teaching approaches, including science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM)-based learning, digital literacy and experiential education. Case studies presented at the conference showcased successful sustainability initiatives implemented in schools across the country, emphasising the role of students and teachers in driving environmental change. Additionally, government representatives outlined upcoming plans to improve both the quality of education and sustainability efforts in schools.
“Utafiti Elimu Tanzania 2025 was an extraordinary opportunity to share our experiences on climate, environment and education, while also contributing to a broader perspective on how these critical topics can be effectively integrated into the curriculum,” Mr Cid-Guzman said. “It was a valuable learning experience, offering the chance to engage with other schools and academic institutions, and gain insight into the work being conducted by scientists and researchers across Tanzania.”
AKES, Tanzania remains committed to integrating sustainability education into its curriculum and empowering students with the knowledge and skills needed to address today’s environmental challenges.
Photos (top to bottom):
- Participants' group photo.
- Kawanga Mapunda, country education program manager at the Aga Khan Foundation, Tanzania giving a speech.
- Representative from AKES, Tanzania interacting with other participants at the conference.
- Participants listening closely as speakers share inspiring ideas during the conference.
