Our History

SLS had humble beginnings.  The school’s history dates back to the early 2000’s, when children in the village of Karansi, many who were orphaned or with widowed mothers, simply needed a place to go—to be safe, fed and cared for.  A preschool was organized by Pastor Wariaeli and his church, before the school was officially organized. 

Pastor Wariaeli had a great vision for his community that included the establishment of an English-Medium school in the village.  Having little financial resources, the pastor prayed and eventually connected with a church and community of people in the U.S. from Atlanta, Georgia, who offered to come alongside the young pastor in support of his (and God’s) vision for the Siha District of Tanzania.  A sponsorship program was established to fund the school, supported by sponsors in the U.S.  Project Child continues to today.  

This international partnership between the two communities of Karansi and Atlanta, Georgia still exists and continues to thrive.  This work is carried out through the in-country NGO, SHEFO and the US nonprofit, Ubora. 

Each year, dozens of people from the U.S. travel to the village to mentor, love and serve the residents of Karansi and the students of SLS. The impact programs of Ubora now include:  sponsorship, education, health, business and community, benefiting the students and residents of the Siha District to the glory of God.

We are excited for this next chapter of the school’s history—including the establishment of the new boarding and day program offerings at Siha Leadership School in 2022—God’s Kingdom with children of all backgrounds growing and learning together. 

As we dream of the future, we envision expanding the school up through Form 6 with emphasis on Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM).

SLS Milestones

• 2002 - An unofficial preschool is organized through the church led by Pastor Wariaeli Maphie to help care for village children

• 2003 - Karanse Preschool is officially registered with the government

• 2009 - School expands; Standard 1-7 fully operational

• 2017 - Siha Leadership School achieves #1 in District; Consistently ranks top 1-2 in District

• 2020 - 50 acres of land is secured for expansion of future facilities

• 2021 - SLS is emerging as a a”Reference School” for the Ministry of Education based on its performance and innovative teaching approach

• 2022 - SLS expands and welcomes its first class of board and day students

• Ongoing - Successful long-term international partnership continues

  Recent Graduates

  Currently:  

  • 124 graduates in secondary schools

  • 45 graduates at college or university

  • 25 graduates in higher education