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Antony Petro: The story of Tanzanian young boy’s courage and academic success
Antony Petro, a student who has completed Standard Seven at Amani Hills School in Mwanga District, Kilimanjaro Region, achieved an 'A' grade in all his subjects.
What you need to know:
- When his father attempted to sell their family’s only piece of land, Antony confronted him, threatening to report him to the police.
Mwanga. In 2018, Antony Petro, then a nine-year-old from Ngara in Kagera, took an extraordinary step that captured national attention.
When his father attempted to sell their family’s only piece of land, Antony confronted him, threatening to report him to the police.
The bold action, shared widely on social media, showcased a young boy’s fierce determination to protect his family’s sole source of security.
Antony understood the risks of losing the land, which served as a lifeline for him, his sisters, and their mother.
His courage resonated deeply with people across Tanzania, and many felt compelled to support the boy who had taken such a public stand.
Among those touched was Issihaka Msuya, who offered financial and emotional support to Antony and his family.
With Msuya’s help, Antony left Ngara for Kilimanjaro, starting a new chapter in his young life. He was enrolled at Amani Hills English Medium Primary School in Mwanga, Kilimanjaro, where he continued his studies with renewed hope and ambition.
Antony’s hard work and determination quickly bore fruit, and this year, he achieved outstanding results in his Standard Seven exams.
He was one of six students out of 29 to secure straight A’s in all subjects.
Reflecting on his performance, Antony expressed his gratitude. “I’m happy with my results. I thank God because I didn’t expect to score A’s in all subjects,” he said.
He emphasized his belief in the value of hard work and perseverance, adding, “If you believe in yourself and keep working hard, you can succeed.”
A teacher in the making
Antony has set his sights on a career as a teacher. For him, teaching is more than a profession—it’s a calling to support other children who face difficult challenges, just as he once did.
“Since I was young, I wanted to be a teacher, so I can help other children, especially those from disadvantaged backgrounds,” he shared.
Now, Antony has one major request. Given his academic success and commitment to his studies, he hopes to be placed in a top national secondary school where he can continue to excel.
“It has been my dream to study in a national school, and I hope the government will consider this request,” he said.
Knows what he wants
Msuya, who has been by Antony’s side since the viral video, praised the young boy’s resilience and focus.
“Antony knew what he wanted, even at a young age. He has worked hard and made the most of this opportunity,” Msuya said.
He believes Antony’s journey serves as a powerful reminder that a determined spirit, no matter how young, can overcome significant obstacles.
Antony’s story continues to inspire many across Tanzania, symbolizing hope, resilience, and the belief that a brighter future is always within reach.
As he prepares for his next chapter in secondary school, his journey reminds others that age is no barrier to making a difference for oneself and one’s family.
