I Have a Dream of Becoming President One Day
“I have a dream of becoming the President one day. Through my life story, I want to inspire others never to give up. And when I become President, I will support those who have lost hope in life. No matter the challenges someone is facing, there is always a second chance at every stage of life.” -Joel Joseph.
Joel Joseph is a 15‑year‑old Grade Seven student at Nianjema Primary School. His journey back to education is a powerful example of resilience, determination, and the transformative impact of second‑chance learning opportunities.
Joel’s life changed dramatically after his parents separated, leaving him to live with his father. While in Grade Three, he became a street child. Life on the streets was extremely difficult: Joel survived by digging pit latrines to earn small amounts of money and often slept outdoors or at neighbours’ homes. Despite these hardships, he remained determined to change his circumstances.
A turning point came when Joel’s older brother, who lives in Dar es Salaam, encouraged him to return to school. Joel was enrolled at Nianjema Primary School in Bagamoyo through the Complementary Basic Education in Tanzania (COBET) programme, which provides second‑chance education for out‑of‑school children. Through commitment and hard work, Joel progressed rapidly and is now completing Grade Seven.
Joel also points to the positive influence of the Bonga Club, introduced at the school through the partnership between OCODE and Strømme Foundation. Through the Bonga Club, he have learned many things and now understand himself better. He is confident, and he knows what he wants in life.
I believe that one day my dream of becoming the President of this country will come true,” he says.
The Head Teacher, Mr Renatus Kisane, confirms Joel’s remarkable progress. He notes that within one year in the COBET class, Joel performed exceptionally well, was promoted to higher grades, and is currently serving as Head Boy of the school. Joel’s story highlights the transformative power of education and the importance of providing second chances. Through the Back‑to‑School Programme and Bonga Clubs, implemented by OCODE in partnership with Strømme Foundation with support from Grieg Foundation, vulnerable children are supported to return to education, build self‑confidence, and develop essential life skills. In 2025, 284 children (128 girls and 156 boys) were reintegrated into primary schools through the COBET system.
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