In 2017 and 2018 I was commissioned by the Zanzibar Schools Project (ZSP) to photograph their work in various rural schools on the island. This picture was taken in the Unguja Ukuu village school when enthusiastic students were registering for the ZSP's free after-school English and life-skills classes.
ZSP always gives its students a free meal before classes begin (cooked by the headmaster’s wife) that help students maintain their energy levels and ability to concentrate. Most will have eaten little since the previous night as most families can only afford to feed their children once per day.
Teachers in rural schools are poorly trained and underpaid and many have to take second jobs to make ends meet. This is their staff room.
ZSP also supports several pre-school organisations run by volunteer teachers and parents.
Students at Unguja Ukuu junior school, Zanzibar.
In addition to its work at the Unguja Ukuu primary school, ZSP helps with fundraising for the new English language nursery school set up in the village by two local teachers.
Never seen a burkini before, Unguja Ukuu village, Zanzibar
A day at the beach with ZSP-provided ‘burkinis’ for the girls.
Children at Unguja Ukuu nursery school, Zanzibar.
Junior school student, Zanzibar.