Sister Parish June Update

Tanzania Sister Parish Update

The Mary Our Queen Education Center in Ligera, Tanzania was constructed in 2019 and enrolled the first class in January of 2020. We are excited to announce that twenty students will be completing their 3 year vocational training program at the end of 2022. The students have spent half days in the classroom studying academic subjects including math, English language, computers, religion, and health. The other part of their day is spent in the sewing room learning skills to be competent in their vocation as seamstresses and tailors. Also attending are 8 second year students and 23 first year students. The education center which was funded by MOQ parishioners is providing a vital resource for the Ligera community. This was much needed and is a highly appreciated resource.

The 51 students attending the MOQ vocational education center are receiving education and training that previously did not exist in this area of Tanzania.   Tanzanian children between the ages of 5 to 14 attend elementary school in their local communities.  To qualify to attend secondary school they must pass an entrance exam and be able to pay for tuition and supplies. The 14 year olds in the Ligera area who don’t qualify for high school or cannot pay the fees, have no opportunity for further education or vocational training.

The cost to cover the expenses for each student is around $300 per year.  Forty-two parishioners from our parish have volunteered to sponsor individual students.  The commitment is for one year at a time. Sponsors receive a letter and photo from their student.  This year we have a larger than expected first year class and are in need of 9 additional sponsors.  The $300 can be paid as a onetime donation or in monthly payments.

If you are interested in becoming a sponsor for a student, please contact Mary Leighton at tanzaniasisterparish@moqchurch.org or leave a message at the parish office.  Thank you!