Our trimestral reports are written by Susan Laker for our Kampala programs and by Aidah Wafula for our Jinja programs. In addition to our Child-Sponsorship Program we run additional programs throughout the year benefitting all children and their community. This report shows the programs that have been running the trimester October-December 2024. We also invite you to check out our Instagram stories to find out more about the activities that we carried out during this time.
1. EDUCATION
Kampala
October was a significant month for our Senior Four and Senior Six students, who sat for their national exams—vital for shaping their future academic journeys. Thanks to the incredible support of our sponsors and donors, we were able to cover essential educational expenses like school fees, uniforms, exam registrations, and other learning materials.
On the 13th and 19th, we visited Hope Land Boarding School to show our support for the Senior students. We brought food, shared encouraging words, and reminded them of our unwavering love and backing. Additionally, on the 27th, we helped prepare Primary Seven students for their upcoming exams.
The 25th and 26th were dedicated to empowering small business owners receiving loans. We held a leadership training workshop focused on effective leadership and business management—skills that will help them thrive in their ventures.
In November, our children faced the challenge of end-of-term exams, and for those in Primary Seven, Senior Four, and Senior Six, it was also time for the rigorous national exams. These exams, overseen by the Uganda National Examination Board, are a critical milestone for our students and are conducted under strict security. Thanks to the generosity of our supporters, these students were able to sit for these important exams with the resources they needed.
December was a month of giving back and celebration. The children got involved in volunteer work within the organization, helping one another with homework, cleaning, and training. They also prepared for the Christmas party with performances of poems, dances, and songs, adding an extra layer of joy and meaning to the festivities. The month ended on a high note, with many parents joining in the celebration, making it a truly special time for everyone involved.
Jinja
The final quarter of the academic year has been bustling with activity for the education program. October marked the second month of the third academic term, with students across various schools fully immersed in their studies. On October 11th, the Uganda Advanced Certificate of Education (UACE) examinations began, representing a crucial turning point for students like Irama Isaac, Wafula Victoria, and Clive Muwuluke as they took a big step toward their futures.
November was a month of success, with our Primary Seven candidates completing the Primary Leaving Examinations (PLE) and non-candidate classes taking their promotional exams to determine their progression to the next academic year. The term officially ended on November 29th, and while most students showed remarkable improvement, we also saw challenges, such as Nakato Zulaika, whose health struggles impacted her academic performance.
In December, the academic pace slowed as students returned home for the holidays. However, our commitment to learning didn't stop. We kept children engaged with computer classes at the center, ensuring they continued their educational journey during the break. A standout moment of the month was the inspiring story of Anna Mirembe, a recent graduate from Kyambogo University. Her heartfelt gratitude to the foundation for supporting her from secondary school to earning her degree in Arts Education highlighted the life-changing impact of educational sponsorship.
Additionally, we held a workshop for our small business loans beneficiaries, led by Joelle, our business consultant. It was a valuable opportunity for the entrepreneurs to gain new insights and strengthen their business skills.
2. NUTRITION PROGRAM
Kampala
Throughout October and November, we made Sundays extra special for our children by providing hot, nutritious meals. For two weeks they enjoyed rice with G-nut sauce and silverfish, and for the other two, beans and posho. Your support made it all possible!
In December, the meals grew even more abundant, with our children benefiting from a variety of dishes throughout the month. From rice with G-nut sauce and beans to posho, and even a special Christmas feast, the children were well-fed and happy. Despite heavy rain on Christmas Day, the celebration was filled with joy, music, and dancing.
Jinja
3. HEALTH AND EYE-CARE PROGRAM
Kampala
Thanks to the use of mosquito nets and water filters, October and November were worry-free months—no children fell ill! We're keeping a close eye on health and hygiene to ensure it stays that way. Even in December, when landslides and floods impacted our office property, the children remained safe and healthy, with no illnesses reported. We're on top of the situation and committed to keeping all the children under our care in good health!
Jinja
In October, we swiftly responded to an incident involving Kikyonkyo Sayuni, who injured her leg. Quick medical care helped her recover, and we're happy to report that no further health issues arose in November and December. The children are doing great, and we're grateful for their continued well-being!
4. VARIA PROGRAMS
Kampala
In October, we celebrated Uganda's Independence Day with a trip to Ggaba Beach, where the children enjoyed fish and boat riding. Our new team member, Buswali Flavia, replaced Alice in the Sunday nutrition program, and we continued our meetings regarding small business loans and parent meetings every Saturday. In November, the children took part in various activities, including extra shifts for computer lessons as their interest in technology grew. The holiday period also allowed for more time to discuss homework and academic progress.
In December, the children continued their holiday activities, with extra shifts for computer lessons and two shifts for Sunday lunch due to the increase in the number of children. We also prepared for the Christmas party, which involved lots of food, games, and community bonding.
Jinja
October and November were marked by the Social Impact Trip 2024, which brought participants to Kampala and Jinja. Visitors engaged in activities such as school tours, city explorations, and cooking classes. The highlight of their visit was a center day in Jinja, where they shared memorable moments with sponsored children through fun activities and communal meals. The success of this initiative underscored the power of cross-cultural connections and the dedication of the foundation’s team.
In December, the Christmas celebration brought families, children, and staff together for a joint festive event. This gathering strengthened bonds within the community and provided a platform for reflection on the achievements of the year. Weekly call meetings with the Uganda and Netherlands teams ensured seamless coordination throughout the quarter.
