The School of St. Jude: An African Success Story in Tanzania

Travelers to Tanzania head to the safari parks for that close encounter with Africa’s wildlife, clamber to the top of Mt Kilimanjaro or sip cocktails by the opalescent waters of Zanzibar. But thousands of visitors each year now enjoy a different experience:  an opportunity to visit one of the great success stories of East Africa. The School of St. Jude, founded by a young Australian woman, opened in 2002 with three students, and today there are over 1,650 bright students from impoverished families enjoying a totally free, high-quality education thanks to the support the school has received from individuals and groups across the globe. Without this opportunity, these students would have had little or no education, and would likely have continued living within the cycle of poverty into which they were born. Today, their futures are much brighter, as they work hard to achieve previously out-of-reach goals such as university degrees, running their own businesses and serving as future leaders in their communities.

Visitors to the school are able to spend a few hours touring the classrooms and facilities, or can take advantage of the onsite accommodations and enjoy a few days interacting with the students and staff in this unique institution. And Epic Road offers experiences that allow visitors the opportunity to deliver pre-packed care packages that include soccer balls or collapsible solar lights for students and their families, who otherwise would be relying on dangerous candles and kerosene lamps after dark. No visitor returns untouched by the humble circumstances and grateful Tanzanians who warmly welcome them to share some time and stories over a cup of chai or a soda in their homes – a truly memorable and enlightening experience.

Meet some of St. Jude’s students in the inspiring video above, and visit St. Jude's website to learn more about how you can support this very special group of children.