Literary Week celebrations at the Aga Khan Mzizima Secondary School, Dar es Salaam


03 April 2024

The second edition of "Literary Week" was held at the Aga Khan Mzizima Secondary School (AKMSS), Dar es Salaam from 25-28 March. This event celebrated and upheld the critical role of literature in society.

Literary Week celebrations at the Aga Khan Mzizima Secondary School, Dar es Salaam Literary Week celebrations at the Aga Khan Mzizima Secondary School, Dar es Salaam Literary Week celebrations at the Aga Khan Mzizima Secondary School, Dar es Salaam
The occasion brought together students from Grades 7-10 and Diploma Programme 1 to compete in a poetry recitation, declamation, spelling bee and book cover design contest, along with creating book reviews. 
 
The three winners from each of the activities received big prizes comprising medals and trophies. They also received textbooks, respective of each student’s grade level and interest, as a gesture for their courageous and extraordinary showcase of communication, critical thinking and creativity skills. 
 
One of the exceptional spellers of the day, Grade 7 student Sarrah Essaji, expressed how the event helped her defeat her stage fright. 

"Before this moment, I was unsure if I could stand in front of such a huge audience because I always suffered from stage fright,” she said. "The contest boosted my confidence and set the tone for future events of a similar nature." 
 
The Chief Executive Officer of the Aga Khan Education Service, Tanzania Dr Shelina Walli emphasised how salient such events are towards improving confidence and developing communication skills within the students. She also acknowledged all the participants and encouraged other students who struggle with confidence to take up any opportunities that fall their way.  

The Aga Khan Mzizima Secondary School, Dar es Salaam is committed to delivering initiatives such as Literary Week and more to equip its students with the knowledge and skills that are needed in today’s globally competitive world. 

Photos (top to bottom):
  • A group photo of the senior management team, members of the English department and best participants of the day.
  • An energising applause and encouragement from the audience to get their participants confident.
  • Ms Vinita, head of the English department collaborating with student judges to establish the overall best participant in different categories.
  • Head of School, Dr Arun and CEO, Dr Shelina awarding Rihanna Gajiyani who won the best book cover design of the Literary Week celebration.