The Aga Khan University's Institute for Educational Development, East Africa (IED, EA), through its Centre for Continuing Education and Lifelong Learning, hosted a vibrant walkathon to mark Teachers' Month, an annual October celebration dedicated to recognizing and uplifting educators.
This special event united AKU entities in Tanzania with other Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) institutions, including the Aga Khan Education Service (AKES), Aga Khan Foundation (AKF), Diamond Trust Bank (DTB), Dar es Salaam Serena Hotel, and Jubilee Health Insurance. Teachers from across Tanzania and key education stakeholders also joined in, creating a powerful collective of support and appreciation.
More than just a walk, the event was a heartfelt gesture of care. It blended wellness, community engagement, and educational advocacy. Participants walked for a cause, raising support for Muhimbili Primary School through planned renovations and new infrastructure. IED, EA also donated 2,000 storybooks to the school, nurturing literacy and sparking imagination in young learners.
In her opening remarks, Professor Jane Rarieya, Dean of IED, EA, shared AKU's deep commitment to educators: “This partnership uplifts the teaching profession and gives teachers greater leverage for meaningful collaboration," she said. The walkathon began at the University's Upanga campus, with thoughtfully designed reflection stops along the route. Each stop highlighted the theme Recasting Teaching as a Collaborative Profession. The first encouraged mindfulness and gratitude, allowing participants to pause and reflect on their emotional well-being. The second focused on environmental wellness, featuring a beach cleanup at Coco Beach and a wellness talk on maintaining a healthy work–life balance to prevent burnout.
The final stop returned to the campus, where participants received medals in recognition of their contributions. The day concluded with a visit to Muhimbili Primary School for the presentation of donations and proceeds.
Mr Bonficae Mbena, Assistant Head Teacher at Muhimbili Primary School, expressed heartfelt appreciation: Through this initiative, AKU practised its dedication to nurturing teachers, not just professionally, but holistically. The walkathon embodied AKU's commitment to several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 13 (Climate Action), and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals).
