Sponsorship of students in Kilolo, Tanzania

Our sponsorship of students at St Michael Secondary School in Kilolo, in the southern highlands of Tanzania, is an endeavour we have supported for over 15 years since the late David Tilley (Rotary Club of Billingshurst) first spoke to us about his selfless work to establish the school. Following David’s inspirational talk, three Club members took a 10 strong group out to Kilolo to construct a house for some of the teaching staff. In remote areas, a good standard of housing is essential to attract quality teachers. On return we worked to set up the Charity and register with HMRC for Gift Aid. This was followed by the establishment of a sponsorship programme for the school.

The Club’s current sponsored student is Linda Malya who is in her second year at the school. We are giving Linda the opportunity of a secondary education - a gift that can never be taken from her.

A 13 strong group of Club members has also been privately sponsoring students, either individually or as a small ‘syndicate’. In this way, at any one time, we are supporting a total of 10 able but financially disadvantaged students through their 4 years at the school in this poor remote area of Tanzania. 

Our donations are all channelled through the David Tilley Children’s Foundation (DTCF). We have total confidence that the money we send is used for the intended purpose, some of us have visited and worked at the school and two of our members are Trustees of DTCF.

In addition to arranging sponsorships for 40 students, DTCF also supports the school in other ways. They funded the construction of two new boys' hostels at the school and have also funded major improvements to the girls ablution facilities. They also arrange funding for 3 students each year to attend an ‘A’ level college in Dodoma. Several students have progressed to University, which is funded by the Tanzanian government.

If you would like to know more about the Club's involvement in Kilolo or about the David Tilley Children's Foundation please contact Tony Vaughan.

01903 740633  Email tvaughan.ashanti@btinternet.com