To that end, EBLI has hired a new academic headmaster, Crispin Bruno, to provide leadership to the secondary education program, and do everything possible to ensure each student is given the best possible opportunity to succeed. Crispin will collaborate with Elizabeth Geoffrey in program administration and oversight, who continues as coordinator of the secondary education program.
Additionally, new teachers have been hired on a full-time basis who are well-versed in their teaching subject. Time for instruction has been extended, allowing one hour of study per lesson versus just 45 minutes. Exams will be administered on a regular basis to evaluate the comprehension and performance development of the students. In addition to morning tea and snack, afternoon lunch is now provided free of charge to the students, which gives them the energy to stay even longer for remedial instruction in the late afternoon. Moreover, a mentorship program has been established, pairing students with teaching faculty and EBLI staff, to provide an avenue for students to discuss pressing issues and seek guidance. Finally, onsite childcare services are provided free for students with young children.
EBLI is also excited to share that Maryknoll Lay Missioner, Steve Pope, has begun working at EBLI on a part-time basis, teaching English in the secondary education program. While Swahili is the official language of Tanzania, national secondary education exams are administered in English, so it is critical that each student demonstrates a solid command of the English language. To that end, Steve focuses on elevating the English reading, writing and comprehension skills of all students in the secondary education program. Steve is the second Maryknoll Lay Missioner to work at EBLI, after Michael Leen who continues to lead all economic empowerment activities.
Below are some photos of class instruction in the EBLI secondary education program.