Enfield pupils send news from Tanzania

A group of pupils from St Ignatius College in Enfield are currently in Tanzania, as part of their partnership with St Ignatius Prep and Primary (SIPP) in Dodoma.  Their trip is part of the Companions Programme, an initiative of JM (Jesuit Missions) that links Jesuit schools in Britain with their counterparts overseas.

An initial visit to Dodoma from Father John Moffatt SJ (the former Chaplain), Father Tim Byron SJ (the current Chaplain) and St Ignatius' Head of Geography, Chris Hunt, in July 2007 paved the way for the College's partnership with SIPP.  The school is a relatively young, having been established in 2003 by the Jesuits of the East African Province.  It serves the local community and offers excellent education opportunities to those fortunate enough to attend the school.  The government of Tanzania has been so impressed by the quality of Jesuit education that they have donated a very large piece of land to the Jesuits so that they can expand their work and develop a secondary school, as well as colleges for training teachers and nurses.

Father Byron, who is accompanying the boys in Dodoma, says they really appreciate contact from people back in Britain while they are there. 'The boys are writing reflections on their experiences and we are uploading photos and videos too when the dodgy internet coverage allows us,' he says. 'Any comments left are a great encouragement for our lads - we read them out to them every lunchtime!'

Over the last few years, the two communities have learnt more about each other.  In addition to Old Ignatians who have volunteered in Dodoma, a number of Ignatians have visited the school and the College has also welcomed Father Luyembe Sosthones SJ (known as Fr Sossy), the Superior of the community in Dodoma, and a teacher from St Ignatius Prep and Primary.

Catch up with the latest news from Dodoma, watch videos, read the blogs and post the party a message.  Go to: www.amdgtanzania.blogspot.com


 Tanzania Blogspot