SURVIVAL

In the states, and particularly at BMHS, participating in class can be the difference between a ‘C’ and an ‘A’. But here in Tanzania, participating in class could be the difference between life and death.

According to Mr. Thomas, the Class 7 mathematics and science teacher, “If you don’t speak in class, you will die.” Passing Class 7 in Tanzania is the equivalent to receiving a community college diploma in the States. Sure, it’s not much, but it is something.

It is truly mind-blowing how, even though we are living in the 21^st century, it’s still survival of the fittest for the people in Tanzania. Except now, due to western influence, the definition of “survival of the fittest” has drastically changed. Thousands of years ago, humans living in Africa only needed the basic necessities to survive, and they would obtain those necessities accordingly. However, in today’s ever-changing world, people in Tanzania need an education to obtain those basic necessities.

I also talked to Mr. Kimaro about this particular topic. He told me that, “Regardless of what job you have, nothing is stable. Every day is a fight for survival.” Granted, Tanzania citizens aren’t literally fighting lions for food, but they sure are fighting.

Honestly, I can’t imagine waking up every day in survival mode. It scares me just thinking about it. But for the people of Tanzania this is yet another thing that doesn’t seem to affect their smiles or contagious laughs. Despite being in survival mode, the people of Tanzania see every day as an opportunity to succeed. It’s one thing to make the best out of a bad situation, but it’s another thing to make an opportunity out of a bad situation.