In the heart of Nyachenda village, Kasulu District, the vibrant sounds of traditional music and joyful laughter signaled the beginning of a new chapter in education. Teachers, education officials, and community leaders gathered with enthusiasm to celebrate the official opening of the Nyachenda Teachers’ Resource Center (TRC). The resource center is a significant milestone in the journey to enhance the education of children in Tanzania through the power of active, play-based learning.

The center reflects the shared vision of the PlayMatters project and its partners, showcasing their commitment to improving educational outcomes by promoting Learning through Play (LtP) as an active teaching and learning method. Led by the International Rescue Committee (IRC), Plan International, and War Child Alliance in partnership with the LEGO Foundation, PlayMatters aims to integrate LtP into pre-primary and primary education, especially in refugee camps and refugee-hosting communities, for improved holistic learning and well-being. PlayMatters also supports teacher well-being and strengthens Teacher Continuous Professional Development (TCPD) mechanisms for improved educational quality.

The Nyachenda TRC represents a major achievement in this mission. It offers educators a dedicated space to collaborate, grow professionally, and develop creative teaching resources that will help transform classrooms and learning experiences across Tanzania.

The TRC’s inauguration was officiated by Theresia Mtelewe, the District Administrative Secretary, with key remarks delivered by Elestina Chanafi (District Education Officer), Leticia Amuduki (IRC Education Coordinator), and Juliana Dyegura (PlayMatters Project Lead). Each speaker emphasized the TRC's role in enhancing teacher capacity and fostering effective teaching methods that lead to better learning outcomes.

Recognizing Achievements

The event was made even more vibrant by dynamic cultural performances and participatory activities. Traditional dances, a student choir, "ngonjera" poetry performances, a scout parade, and competitions in Teaching and Learning Materials (TLM) creation and LtP-based teaching all reflected the creativity and enthusiasm of both teachers and learners.

Awards and certificates were presented to acknowledge outstanding efforts, including teachers who excelled in the creation of TLMs and LtP teaching competitions, host community schools participating in the PlayMatters project. Educators who completed the LtP core training also received official certification for their achievement.

The event welcomed a wide range of participants, including community members, teachers, students, district education officials, local leaders, and media representatives. Their active engagement highlighted the community’s united dedication to building a nurturing and innovative learning environment.

A pivotal part of the day was a series of discussions on how best to utilize the TRC to support ongoing TCPD efforts. Government officials, education leaders, and teachers exchanged ideas on maximizing the center’s role as a hub for training and resource sharing, enhancing classroom instruction through the integration of LtP methods, and ensuring the TRC's sustainability for long-term educational impact.

Stakeholders reaffirmed their commitment to its effective use in strengthening teacher training and improving student learning. The center is set to become a model for professional development, championing innovative teaching methods that drive student engagement and academic success.

To mark the official launch of the TRC, the guest of honour, flanked by various officials, cut the ribbon, symbolizing the beginning of a new era in teacher support and educational development in Kasulu. The center is now positioned to become a key resource for TCPD and improved teaching practices.

The inauguration marks more than just the opening of a facility. It is a crucial step towards empowering educators and transforming learning through LtP for a brighter educational future in Tanzania.