Education in Uganda

Education transforms societies. In many western countries, the opportunities to learn writing, reading and math are basic fundamental rights. On average, developed countries maintain higher adult literacy rates (96%), when compared to the international average (86%) (data from 2018). Underdeveloped countries such as Uganda (76%) record significantly lower adult literacy rates, some as low as 65% in Sub-Saharan African countries. Although education is a basic need for every child, it’s often unavailable in these communities. Any available education often lacks quality and fails to prepare students for technical training or even the next grade. Developed schools and high quality formation enable gainful employment opportunities for children seeking to build a better future.

The Sacred Heart of Jesus Nursery and Primary School serves students Pre-Kindergarten - 2nd grade with plans to expand an additional grade each year. The school is dedicated to the formation and education of students who are academically excellent, morally sound and spiritually healthy, to ensure they are equipped to contribute to their families and communities in a loving and meaningful way. The curriculum offers mathematics, reading and writing classes. These skills are critically important for families and the community because less than half of parents in the village are literate. Sub-average literacy rates and the lack of job opportunities have caused significant economic strain on parents, forcing many to seek occupation elsewhere. Transiency, employee retention issues and the lack of formal education jeopardize existing businesses and local commerce. To preserve and strengthen the Nyahuman community, The Bugumiro Foundation launched a sponsorship program which offers additional educational opportunities for local children. The foundation identifies promising local students, many of whom are orphans or young women, who need financial support to achieve their educational goals. These children have the unique opportunity to access quality education from qualified teachers and develop meaningful relationships with their sponsors. Although children have the opportunity to receive sponsored education, many are not able to take advantage of the opportunity for a variety of reasons. Some children are petitioned for marriage at a young age, while others become pregnant in their teenage years. Many families also struggle to afford school fees and direct children as young as five towards work in the fields. Although some children cannot capitalize on sponsorship opportunities, the program has provided quality education for over 40 children with more donors joining the ministry every year.

The Bugumiro Foundation has prioritized access to affordable educational resources and full-time teaching positions to strengthen the Nyamuhan economy and share the hope and healing of Jesus Christ. High quality education improves the chances for boys and girls to rise above poverty and build a better future for their families, communities and country. If you are interested in supporting this mission and the people of Uganda, please visit our donations page for more information.