Volunteering in a primary school in Tanzania

Before studying in Africa

So now it should start. Volunteer for three months, get to know new people and foreign cultures. After much deliberation, I decided on Africa, Tanzania. After graduating from high school, I wanted to gain experience abroad before continuing with my studies.

country and people

I chose Tanzania because I wanted to get to know the typical African way of life. Everything goes a little slower here than in Europe, the people are more relaxed, people dance and laugh together. I have never met such hospitable people. I was particularly impressed by the happy attitude towards life and the friendliness of the people, who often hardly own anything themselves.

The country is quite diverse. Within the three months I spent in Tanzania, I traveled through the country for two weeks together with the other volunteers. The special highlights were our safari tour, hiking in the Uluguru Mountains and of course the five days on the dream island of Zanzibar. A must for every volunteer in Tanzania!

Accommodation at Student House in Tanga

For me it was the small coastal town of Tanga. I lived in a student house with five other volunteers. The girls and boys were all really great and friendships developed quickly. Our house was still fairly new and very comfortable. We felt right at home. An African woman lived in the house with us. She made us breakfast in the morning and African dishes in the evening. We were able to turn to her or one of the other contact persons with any question. There was always someone there, so I never felt alone.

Volunteering at the school

I particularly enjoyed working with the children. I had decided to help in an elementary school. Although I had no experience in this area, I was quickly able to do a lot myself and take on responsibility. After just a few weeks I was teaching the children English, math and science. Once a week after school I visited a children's home where the other volunteers were working. Working in the various institutions allowed us to get to know the people in a very special way. We were often invited to the homes of teachers or staff in the evenings. I enjoyed these visits very much and even today I am still in contact with some Tanzanians.

My conclusion: the most exciting months of my life

The time in Tanzania was super nice. I was able to meet a lot of great people, gain experience and above all have a lot of fun. These three months were the most exciting of my life and I would travel to Tanzania again at any time.

Voluntary work in a primary school in Tanzania Experience report by Mascha R.