Abraham Bashombana Aganze, a Congolese young man, interprets school lessons for refugees. In his opinion, the key to a good life is dedicating it to helping others.
THE BRUTAL CONFLICT in the Democratic Republic of Congo, continuing for over three decades, has created over five million refugees. About half a million of them have crossed the border to neighboring Uganda for a more peaceful life. Abraham Bashombana Aganze, 30, from North Kivu, is one of them. He lives in Nakivale refugee settlement area, established in 1958.
Abraham, who has a university degree, had to escape violence in his homeland in 2020. For him, it was easier to settle in the Uganda than for tens of thousands of other Congolese people. In the university, his major was English – one of Uganda’s official languages. Most Congolese have never studied English, as education in DRC takes place mostly in Swahili and French.
This language barrier is one of the most urgent threats to the continuation of education for those coming to Uganda as refugees, particularly from the DRC. Abraham noticed the problem soon after settling in Nakivale refugee settlement area and wanted to help. Now, he works as a volunteer English interpreter in Rubondo community, in a school supported by Finn Church Aid.
”I started volunteering after some youth who know me came to request me to teach them enough English to go to school. I soon figured out this would be the best way for me to help the most people”, Abraham says.
”My philosophy? Life is about helping others.”
Becoming a refugee turns your whole life upside down
As an interpreter, Abraham participates in classes and helps the students whose English is not good enough follow the classes. The school has both local students and refugees, like many other schools in Uganda. The regular staff of the school consists of Ugandan teachers who, in turn, don’t speak Swahili or French. For this reason, youth with a refugee background struggle to understand the lessons.
Abraham gets a small monetary remuneration for his volunteer work. He usually spends five days a week at the school.
”If, for some reason, I can’t get to the school, students I know come to my house to ask for help with homework.”
Becoming a refugee turns your whole life upside down, even in a neighboring country. To Abraham, being a refugee means financial uncertainty, as they can no longer work in the areas they’re familiar with becausethere’s no job for their training. Uganda makes the lives of the refugees easier by giving families plots of land for farming. Abraham’s family has also received a plot to till.
” Here, one needs to literally be growing one’s own food. I’m a city boy and did not know a thing about farming, until hunger forced me to learn.”
Dream of an English-language learning center
Abraham has been able to also utilize his language skills by working as an interpreter for Finn Church Aid visitors in the Nakivale refugee settlement area. Being a young man, he has many plans – establishing an English-language learning center for the area, improving the productivity of land through composting, and learning more about forms of agriculture that help in building a better life. Abraham knows it will be a long time before he will be able to return home.
”When I sit down and think about my homeland, I feel a great sadness welling inside me. I want the Democratic Republic of Congo and her people to get on its feet and get stronger. Education is the key to all of this – that’s what I believe.”
According to Abraham, few Congolese youth dream about returning to their homeland. The trauma left by the war and the violence runs deep. Still, life as a refugee is not easy in Uganda, either. Thus, Abraham wants to do his part for the youth of his homeland.
”All of our knowledge and wisdom dies with us unless we share it with others. If I share what I’ve learned to hundred people, for example, they will share them on to at least hundred other.”
Text: Elisa Rimaila Photos: Antti Yrjönen Translation: Tatu Ahponen
Never too late to LEARN – improving access to education in Uganda
Monica a student from Rwamwanja Secondary School finds it easier to participate in class with her wheelchair and kneepads.
IN UGANDA, FCA supports children and adolescents access education in Uganda’s refugee settlements through the Lasting Education Achievements Responding to Needs (LEARN) project funded by the U.S department of State, Bureau for Population, Refugees and Migration.
LYDIA BANGA, Rwarinda Racheal, and Komulembe Monica are three inspiring young individuals who, despite setbacks, are forging their education paths.
FCA helped them rejoin mainstream schooling after their education was interrupted. Here are their own stories.
Lydia’s journey to achieving top performance.
Lydia Banga’s journey from a refugee fleeing civil war in Congo to becoming one of the best-performing students at in Rwamwanja refugee settlement is a testament to her determination.
Lydia Banga attends Ntenungi Senior Secondary School in Rwamwanja refugee settlement
“When I came to Uganda, I was demoted and placed in primary classes instead of joining secondary school. This was because of the language barrier; I did not know English. I felt demotivated so I contemplated dropping out of school. However, my mother’s convinced me to stay. In school. I worked hard became one of the best performing students during my Primary Leaving Examinations (PLE).”
“I was determined to work hard even when my mother fell ill, and I had to be the sole provider of our family. I am the oldest of five siblings, so I took on casual jobs to support us. Through it all, I remained committed to my education,” she adds.
Lydia later joined Ntenungi Secondary School with support of Finn Church Aid (FCA) through the LEARN project, which gave her extra support.
“I am extremely grateful to FCA for giving me a scholarship to study from Ntenungi Secondary School. They also give me scholastic materials, menstrual hygiene kits, and career counselling.” she says.
Lydia’s dreams of pursuing medicine and specialise in midwifery are fueled by her desire to make a positive impact on her community.
Pregnancy didn’t put an end to her education
Rwarinda Racheal is a survivor, who rejoined school with the support of her parents.
“During the COVID-19 lockdown, I became pregnant because I was taken advantage of by one of our village’s pastors. For my parents and me, it was an extremely difficult time. When we took the issue to the police, it was discovered that he was abusing several girls in the same way. Sadly, he fled the settlement, and we haven’t heard from him since,” Racheal tells us.
Racheal goes to Ntenungi Secondary School.
With unwavering support from her parents, friends, and FCA, she returned to school after the lockdown.
“My mother received a visit from the deputy headteacher of Ntenungi Secondary School who informed her I may resume my studies after delivering. Throughout the pregnancy, she checked in with me every day.”
“A part of my journey has also included FCA support,” she continues. “They drove me to the hospital, and their PSS (Psychosocial Support) & Child Protection officers helped me the entire way. They also give me scholastic materials and menstrual hygiene kits.”
Racheal aspires to become a doctor, to make a difference in people’s lives. “With FCA’s support, I am confident that I will fulfil my dream,” she smiles.
She encourages parents not to feel disappointed about teenagers who get pregnant, emphasising the potential for success with proper support and guidance.
Mobility devices improved Monica’s school experience.
Monica a student from Rwamwanja Secondary School finds it easier to participate in class with her wheelchair and kneepads.
To improve Komulembe Monica’s classroom experience, FCA provided the sixteen-year-old girl with a wheelchair and kneepads.
“The wheelchair and kneepads provided to me by the LEARN project have greatly eased my movement around the school. Now, I can access any part of the school easily. Before I received this support, it was very difficult for me to move and stay in school. It was even worse on rainy days when I would have to crawl in mud and over rocks, which hurt me.”
Monica dreams of becoming a doctor and encourages parents and learners with disabilities to maintain a positive attitude.
“Parents who have children with disabilities should not feel disappointed or ashamed. With proper support, these children can lead successful and meaningful lives,” Monica concludes.
We believe everyone has the right to quality education. Find out more about our LEARN project.
Peter graduated after obtaining a scholarship provided by FCA.
Peter Salah Sam Luka is a 27-year-old South Sudanese national living as a refugee in Uganda. His journey towards higher education was made possible through a scholarship provided by FCA, funded by UNHCR.
IN 2013, PETER’S UNCLE, who resided in Uganda, extended a life-changing invitation to Peter to attend school in Koboko district, Uganda. After successfully completing his secondary school, Peter returned to South Sudan in 2015.
But in 2016, his life took an unexpected turn as conflict overrun their homeland, forcing his family to return to Uganda as refugees. Peter’s family of six children and his mother found their new home in Uganda’s Bidibidi refugee settlement.
Grief to graduation
Peter’s journey towards higher education was made possible through a full scholarship.
In his smartly tailored blue suit and shiny black shoes, Peter radiates confidence and happiness. His recent graduation with a degree in Business Administration, is a testament to his steady determination and is a source of immense joy to him.
For Peter, the path to university education was once nothing more than a distant dream. The loss of his uncle, shortly after he completed secondary education, left him facing overwhelming obstacles. Even upon receiving his exam results, he hesitated to apply to any universities.
“I am the first in my family to complete A levels, and I had a burning desire to continue my education. However, the weight of financial constraints left me feeling despondent.”
He adds, “I was genuinely afraid and heartbroken when my uncle passed away. He wasn’t a wealthy man but a modest taxi driver, and yet he managed to provide for his eight children, his wife, and me.”
Peter returned to the refugee settlement and as luck would have it, he found an advertisement for FCA and UNHCR scholarships. With determination, he hand-delivered his application to the FCA Yumbe office, hoping for an opportunity. Three weeks later, he was excited to receive news of his shortlisting and an invitation for interviews at the Refugee Welfare Committee offices.
Out of 120 applicants, only 50 were fortunate enough to receive an in country-scholarship opportunity from the National Association of Partners (NAPS) under UNHCR funding, a program implemented by FCA. Reflecting on that moment, he shares, “this phone call marked an important turning point in my life. I had once thought my educational journey had reached its end, but here I was, rekindling my hopes and dreams.”
Fully funded scholarship
Peter wants to use his own opportunity as a platform to advocate for education in refugee camps.
Peter’s undergraduate scholarship was fully funded, granting him the opportunity to enroll in a prestigious university. With guidance from a friend who was already studying at Nkumba university, Peter gathered the information needed to apply for a degree in Business Administration. He was admitted in the August 2018 intake.
“For the first time in my life, I could focus on my studies without the burden of worrying about tuition, food, accommodation, school supplies, transportation, and other uncertainties. FCA and UNHCR wholeheartedly provided for me, allowing me to study with dignity.”
Peter’s friends, who were also recipients of the scholarships, pursued their education at Uganda Christian University and Uganda Martyrs University and are now in their final semesters.
“I am deeply thankful to FCA for recognising individuals like me and providing a chance to benefit from these life-changing scholarships. I also extend my heartfelt appreciation to NAPS-UNHCR for their unwavering commitment to funding our education,” says Peter
First of his family
Through FCA’s efforts, secondary schools in Bidibidi, create opportunities for continued learning and higher education for those who aspire to further their studies, like Peter.
Peter’s mother is preparing a special feast for his return.
“I am living proof that it’s not over until it’s over. I remain committed to advocating for education within refugee camps, aspiring to rewrite the narrative for the better,” he continues.
Peter’s mother, Lorna Koropo shared her own happiness, saying, “I couldn’t be present at his graduation, but I plan to prepare a special feast for him when he returns to Bidibidi. He is our first child to progress beyond secondary level school.”
Peter, meanwhile, is looking ahead with anticipation: “I eagerly await the opportunity to join the job market, to become self-sustaining, support my family, and embrace new and better opportunities.”
The annual Nenäpäivä (“Nose Day”) event in Finland collects contributions to support the education of teenage mothers, underage workers, and students with disabilities. In remote Ugandan schools, these funds are helping some students achieve even the highest grades on the scale.
DRUMS BANG OUT a rhythm as children dance and sing in the schoolyard. They are celebrating the beginning of a new school year at a remote school in Mubende, about 150 kilometres west of Uganda’s capital.
As the children celebrate, the whole village celebrates. A boy sitting by a tree in the yard takes up a cue from the adults, digs up a rectangular tin box and holds it confidently between his fingers. It is not only smartphones capturing this performance – it is also saved on the imaginary memory card of the box.
The music and drama group performed at the beginning of the semester in the school yard in Mubende. The group’s activities have been supported with “Nose Day” funds.
This Ugandan school used to be one of the worst performers in the Ugandan national competency test. Now, it is the specifically preferred option for an increasing numbers of parents. Its students’ grades and reading skills have improved dramatically, teachers are getting extra training and extra-curricular music, sport and drama activities are being organized for the children.
“Some of our students still have learning difficulties, but at least now us teachers have the tools to tackle these challenges,” says Mary Tuhirirwe, who has been a teacher at the school for 12 years.
Finn Church Aid has been using Nose Day funds to support schools in Mubende since 2019. A key role has been played by Racobao, a local partner organization. In collaboration with the schools, Racobao has introduced what a crucial element to the mix: letting the whole village community to participate in helping.
COMPARABLE results have been achieved in a total of 20 Ugandan schools, many of which were often empty before the project. Sometimes even the teachers skipped school.
On the first day of school, 87 children are present at Tuhirirwe school. In a school with more than 500 students, it is not a huge number, but the teachers are not yet alarmed. The bean harvest is underway, which will keep many families busy for a few more days.
87 children attended on the first day at Mary’s school. It is not a substantial number in a school with over 500 pupils, but the teachers are not particularly worried yet. They know that the bean harvest is underway – that will keep many families busy for a few days more. Kids skipping the first few days of school to work in the fields is hardly a disaster, though Mary worries more about the children working in the nearby mine.
“I’ve been telling parents to put their kids to school – it’s always worth it. Yes, the work might get the child paid, but such money will be sent in an instant. Education, however, is an investment for a lifetime,” Mary Tuhirirwe stresses.
17-year-old teenage mother Miriam prepares a meal for the family. In Uganda, bean harvesting is a time that employs both adults and children.
Around these parts, it is never self-evident that schools are even open at any given moment. Due to COVID, Ugandan children have endured a two-year school closure – the longest one in the world.
Mubende suffered another tragedy when Ebola started spreading in the region in late 2022, with the schools closing for months yet again. The school closures have had a transformative effect on the lives of many girls, with a significant increase in teenage pregnancies.
In the end of 2022, Mubende suffered an outbreak of Ebola virus. There are still warning signs around the school area.
17-year-old Miriam (name changed) was 15 when she gave birth to a son. The father of the baby left the village after learning that Miriam was pregnant, offering no support to the young mother. Miriam tells us how she dropped out of school once her belly started getting bigger, and how sad it made her feel.
“My mom said I couldn’t go to school anymore, since I would be setting a bad example for the other children,” Miriam recalls. She is stroking her son’s head as he sits on her lap.
When Mary Tuhirirwe turned up in her backyard one day, Miriam’s world turned upside down.
“Madame Mary has come to talk about my sisters,” I thought. When I realized it was about how I could return to school instead, I was over the moon,” Miriam recalls.
Mary assured Miriam she would not have to pay school fees – just returning to school was enough. Miriam’s mother finally agreed with the plan, promising to look after the boy during school hours.
Miriam became mother when she was 15 years old. Now she’s back to school while her mother takes care of Junior, 2.
It is not easy, being a teenage mother in the countryside. The neighbors keep whispering behind her back and mocking the young mother. Many think Miriam is weird for choosing school over regular work.
“I have a child, but I also still see myself as a child. I want to educate myself and hope to have the skills to take on adult responsibilities at some point,” Miriam reflects. She offers advice to other teenage mothers:
“Pregnancy is not the end of the world, and you can always return to school after giving birth. I never regret being a mother, but still, once I grow up, I want to be a teacher – just like madame Mary.”
The interview ends with Miriam asking if she can leave home to go to school already. The day’s lessons are already in progress.
ALONGSIDE child workers and teenage mothers, teachers have also encouraged parents to ensure the education of children with disabilities. At another school, at the end of the red-sand roads, Joshua Kisakye attends classes. He is 6 years old but looks below his age and cannot move at all on his own.
When village teachers went into homes to encourage parents to send their children to school, Joshua’s mother Mariam Nakintu was exhilarated. Finally, something new to add to her son’s days.
“Joshua has been in school for a year with other children. He is no longer as shy; he no longer hides when there are other people visiting,” Marian says.
“Joshua has been at school for a year together with other children. He is no longer so shy and doesn’t hide when other guests come home,” says Nakintu in his backyard. Dressed in a pink shirt, Joshua and his little brother, 2-year-old Chrimas, are spinning on their mother’s lap.
An outsider might not see much progress, but Joshua seems to respond by making noises when teacher John Twesiime teaches him the alphabet in class.
“Many parents keep thinking that children with disabilities don’t belong in school. Joshua is very special to me, though, and I try to create a learning environment where he can learn together with his peers.”
OTHER students at Joshua’s school have also benefited from the work supported by the Nose Day funds. There are more and more children attending school these days. Interaction between families and the school has improved, which in turn affects the whole village’s experience of community identity and its value.
Nasande Aneti, Nyamdwin Johnson, Nisurunziza Bidas, Mutabazi Umal and Ssemyonga Johnson belong to school’s parents’ association. Parents play an important role in attitude education, and now more and more children in the village go to school.
Nisurunziza Bidas, a family father, is a member of the parents’ association, which actively promotes dialogue between the community and the school. The project’s start in 2019 saw a clear effect on the students’ grades. For the first time ever, schools in the Mubende district are seeing kids getting even the highest grades on the scale.
“Education is crucial. I have tried to get parents to put their children in school right from the first day on. Sure, my children have to housework to do in the evenings and during holidays, but when schools start, that’s study time,” says Nisurunziza Bidas, bluntly.
BY THE END of the first school week, more and more households have finished the bean harvest. One look at the blackboard of Mary Tuhirirwe’s school confirms this: 87 pupils came to school on Monday, 217 on Thursday.
By the end of the first school week 87 pupils came to school on Monday, 217 on Thursday.
Now the classrooms are full of joyful noise. It is lunchtime and the kids dig out the plastic cups they have brought with them. The cook pours a ladleful of corn gruel into each cup. Having school meals is a step forward in these parts in helping improve the children’s concentration. No-one learns well with an empty stomach.
Families agree to bring a few kilos of corn to the school’s common storage for the semester.
Lean as it is, the whole community is chipping in to provide this corn gruel. Families have pledged to bring a few kilos of corn for the school’s common store for the semester. The teachers also cultivate fields, not only for the school but also for their own use. The extra income from cultivation is also needed by Mary Tuhirirwe, whose monthly salary is only about EUR 100. Mary also dreams of rearing pigs – but teaching is still her chief calling.
“Students’ behaviour has changed. They know their rights and possess more skills for doing different things. I can only hope this change can be maintained.”
Text and photos by Ulriikka Myöhänen
“I’ve been telling parents to put their kids to school – it’s always worth it. Education, however, is an investment for a lifetime,” says Mary Tuhirirwe, a teacher in Mubende school.
FCA Uganda and UNHCR award 30 scholarships for refugees to study in Italy
Finn Church Aid (FCA) in partnership with the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) has awarded scholarships to 30 refugees to study various master’s degrees in Italy.
The students enrolled in the University Corridors for Refugees (UNICORE) project are from Uganda’s refugee settlements of Kyangwali, Kyaka II, Rwamwanja, Bidibidi, Palorinya, Adjumani, Koboko, Kiryandongo, Adjumani, Palabek and Uganda’s capital – Kampala.
THE UNICORESCHOLARSHIP programme aims to increase opportunities for refugees currently residing in Kenya, Niger, Nigeria, South Africa, Uganda, Zambia and Zimbabwe to continue their higher education in Italy in a bid to promote higher education and increase the share of refugees enrolled in higher education. The program is a funded by a consortium of 33 universities in Italy coordinated by UNHCR Italy.
FCA took part in the fifth cohort of the programme, which was the first with Ugandan participation. Out of 50 UNICORE scholarship slots across Africa, Uganda was awarded 30.
25 candidates travelled to Italy on October 12th 2023, while the remaining will follow at a later date.
Candidates from refugee settlements in Uganda were awarded UNICORE scholarships with FCA support, enabling them to study in Italy. Photo: Linda Kabuzire
Refugee advocates
Speaking during the send-off for the candidates to Italy, Wycliffe Nsheka, Country Director for Finn Church Aid Uganda, commended the successful students for receiving the scholarships and encouraged them to study hard.
“Finn Church Aid supports the right to quality education right from early childhood through primary and secondary school, as well as vocational and higher education. We will continue working with UNHCR to look into different opportunities for different pathways in order to make sure that we assist refugees in realising their education goals.
He encouraged the candidates to be ambassadors in Italy. “Go and succeed, get new opportunities, and make your life better. We would like you to inspire more refugees.”
Representatives of UNHCR also echoed Mr Nsheka’s message encouraging the candidates to act as refugee advocates.
“We have been working with Finn Church Aid for about a year to expand the complementary pathways project. A lot has been done behind the scenes for the UNICORE programme to reach here and I appreciate FCA being a good partner,” said Mike John Wells – Senior Resettlement Officer at UNHCR Kampala.
Some of the candidates arriving at Entebbe International Airport ahead of their flight to Italy. Photo: Linda Kabuzire
FCA assisted at every stage
FCA Uganda played a number of roles throughout the process including information dissemination, career guidance and counseling, scholarship application support, supporting candidates in acquisition of travel documents, visa applications and psychosocial support. The organisation collaborated with UNHCR in Uganda and Italy, as well as the Office of the Prime Minister and the Embassy of Italy to support the pre-departure processes.
The process also led to a new opportunity opening up for potential refugee students.
“As a result of this performance, Italy launched the Sports Corridor as an additional pathway for candidates to pursue their bachelor’s degree in Italy through competence in and contribution to sports. A list of 38 potential candidates (34 Male and 4 Female) has been shared with UNHCR for selection for this pathway,” said Diana Berocwiny, Complementary Pathways Officer at FCA Uganda.
The scholarship covers a large number of expenses, including, but not limited to: application and tuition fees; books, language training; a monthly stipend; housing; transportation; health insurance; mentoring or psychosocial support, travel costs to the third country and visa fees.
The students are also permitted to undertake work-study or part-time employment.
Scholarship recipients enthusiastic
Umwari Joviale at Entebbe International Airport, Uganda before her flight to Italy. Photo: Linda Kabuzire
Umwari Joviale, a Congolese refugee from Rwamwanja, is eager to study international accounting and management at the University of Siena in Italy.
“I am happy that my dream will come true. I dream of reaching far and supporting vulnerable people. Joining the university is a sign that I will.” She tells us.
Joviale came to Uganda with her family in 2014. They were escaping the war in Congo.
“When we got here, Rwamwanja refugee settlement was just a bush. The settlement at the time had a small population. My one and only hope at the time was to be able to eat. I cannot lie to you that I had any other dream then, I just dreamed of having a proper meal. We only received maize and beans, so I always dreamed of eating meat.” She adds.
“I had been studying in Congo, so after settling in the settlement I decided to look for opportunities. Every day I would walk for three hours to UNHCR offices in the settlement, sit at the gate and wait for someone to come and help me.:
After repeated trips to UNHCR offices, Joviale was able to secure funding in 2016 to attend Bugema University and pursued a diploma in accounting.
“I put a lot of effort into my academics and outperformed my peers in class. Now that I have received this UNICORE scholarship, I am grateful that I will continue my education. I will not wait until I graduate from university to start fulfilling my passion of helping girls in Rwamwanja refugee camp and other disadvantaged individuals. I shall begin working on it immediately,” she adds.
Kibrom hopes to develop a novel medication
Beyene Kibrom Abrahaley says he wants to change the medical industry in his home country Eritrea. Photo: Linda Kabuzire
Beyene Kibrom Abrahaley, an Eritrean refugee, will study medical biotechnology in Italy. He is appreciative of the scholarship since it advances his goal of changing the medical industry in his home country.
He says, “I have seen many people die, so I hope to find a new drug after my studies so that everyone can live a great life.”
Kibrom escaped his home country because of insecurity and arrived in Uganda via Sudan.
“Smugglers transported me. My journey wasn’t simple; and I still have many traumas from it. I’m grateful to the government of Uganda and UNHCR for improving my life,” he explains.
“I discovered the UNICORE programme while researching educational options online after relocating to Kampala. and was able to apply and complete the process with FCA’s assistance. I am excited to start on my master’s degree.”
More about the UNICORE programme
The University Corridors for Refugees UNICORE project is promoted by 33 Italian universities with the support of UNHCR, the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Caritas Italiana, Diaconia Valdese, Jesuit Refugee Service and other partners.
Today, 7% of refugees have access to higher education compared to only 1% in 2019. This is, however, far below the global average tertiary and higher education enrollment among non-refugees, which stands at more than 40 per cent.
Ahead of this year’s Global Refugee Forum – the world’s largest annual gathering on refugees, to be held in Geneva in December 2023 – UNHCR is urging states and the private sector to come forward with pledges to increase funding for and access to higher education by joining and marking contributions to the 15by30 global pledge on refugee higher education and self-reliance, which aims to achieve enrolment of 15% of refugee youth in higher education by 2030.
Day of the Girl Child 2023: Aderine went from adversity to aspiration
Aderine returned to school after giving birth thanks to the INCLUDE Project supported by European Union Humanitarian Aid
October 11th is celebrated worldwide as the International Day of the Girl Child, a day dedicated to promoting girls’ rights and opportunities, while recognising the unique challenges girls face.
AT JUST 15 years old, Uwamahirwe Aderine found herself in a challenging situation. Experiencing peer pressure from her social group, she had a relationship with a man that led to a pregnancy.
She had grown up in Rwamwanja refugee settlement in southwestern Uganda, her family and nine siblings having fled the Democratic Republic of Congo to Uganda in 2013 to seek refuge and a better life.
The news was a shock for both her and her parents, who were very disappointed. It was clear that Aderine was far too young to become a mother, and her dreams of education seemed to be over.
Support and a second chance
Through Finn Church Aid Uganda and their “Back to School” campaigns, Aderine was identified as a girl in need of help. The organisation provided crucial support to her through a career guidance assistant, who closely followed her journey and persuaded her back to school.
When Aderine was ready to rejoin the education system, she was enrolled in the Accelerated Education Programme (AEP) supported by European Union humanitarian aid (ECHO) funding. The AEP programme is designed to cater to the unique needs of young mothers and adult students.
The support allowed Aderine to refocus on her life and commitment to education. Despite her young age, she realised the immense importance of education in her life and her future aspirations.
“Because of school, I am more focused on my studies,” she says, confiding in us also her dream to become a teacher herself.
Aderine with her baby at her home in Rwamwanja refugee settlement.
Aderine’s family play a crucial role
Aderine’s parents, particularly her mother, Nzitukuze Perache, were instrumental in her journey. Though initially disappointed, they decided to support her decision to carry the pregnancy to term. Ms Perache, the mother of ten children, values education deeply, as she herself never had the chance to receive it. She, like many mothers, appreciate the importance of education as a means to a better life, not just for her family but for the community at large.
“Education is very important especially for girls. Instead of getting married, they need to finish school so they can have a bright future. I didn’t manage to complete school, but I work hard so my children can go to school and live a better life than me.” Ms Perache tell us.
Aderine and her mother Nzitukuze Perache sit in front of their house in Rwamwanja refugee settlement.
The importance of educating girls
Aderine’s story is a testament to the resilience, strength, and determination of girls worldwide. The International Day of the Girl Child serves as a reminder that every girl deserves the chance to pursue her dreams and contribute to a more equitable and better world. It is a day to acknowledge and address the challenges that girls face, promote gender equality, and support their right to education.
Aderine goes to dig in the garden on weekends when she is away from school.
The right to quality education for all is central to FCA’s work. While attention over the past years has been called to the importance of offering girls more opportunities, much work remains to be done. Climate change and the COVID-19 pandemic further increased the burden on girls and threaten to reverse progress already made. But with adversity comes resourcefulness, creativity, tenacity, and resilience.
Hundreds of millions of girls have shown time and time again that given the skills and the opportunities, they can be the changemakers driving progress in their communities. They need the international community to invest in this potential, not just pay lip service.
Finn Church Aid works to support girls’ access to education through efforts like Uganda’s Accelerated Education Programme, but also much more widely, providing school supplies, dignity kits, awareness campaigns, supporting parents’ livelihoods, and investing in schools, classrooms and teachers.
Vocational training unlocks the potential of refugees
In Uganda’s Rwamwanja refugee settlement, thousands of refugees, including a significant number of youth, face immense challenges. Locked out of many employment opportunities, they struggle to find ways to generate income.
FINN CHURCH AID launched their Business Vocational Education and Training (BTVET) programme in response to the need for change. It’s had a profound impact on the lives of the young people living in the settlement.
Two individuals living in Rwamwanja, located in Kamwenge district, Western Uganda, shared with us how their lives have been positively impacted by the programme. The UN Refugee Agency and the Finnish Ministry of Foreign Affairs jointly support the initiative.
From shattered dreams to creative success
Gaston Chirimwami, a Congolese refugee living in Rwamwanja, had long harbored aspirations to become a musician. His goal was dashed, however, when he was forced to flee his country and seek safety in Uganda. His luck changed when he enrolled in FCA’s Creative Industries programme at their training centre.
There, he discovered his passion for video production and learned skills such as camera operating and photo and video editing. Gaston’s newfound abilities not only boosted his confidence but also provided him with a source of income through photography.
“I believe I can pursue both music and video editing like successful musicians like Tekno,” he told us.
Gaston Chirimwami shooting a video in Rwamwanja refugee settlement. Gaston completed FCA training in camera operation and video and photo editing.
Hairdressing helps support an entire family
Majengo Sadick, a resilient young adult who has the responsibility of caring for his six siblings, stumbled upon FCA’s vocational training program, and found it lifechanging. After completing a hair dressing course at the centre, Sadick started a mobile salon in Rwamwanja refugee settlement (see main picture).
Sadick’s newfound abilities in hairdressing opened doors to lucrative job opportunities while also igniting a passion he never knew he had.
Today, as a professional cosmetician, he owns a salon and supports his siblings’ education. “I’m glad that FCA provided me with skills and a professional certificate without any cost as compared to the expense I would spend in my home country, Congo,’’he says.
Majengo Sadick braiding a client’s hair at her house. Majengo completed an FCA vocational training course in hairdressing and now runs his own salon in Rwamwanja refugee settlement in Uganda.
Vocational training brings transformative change
Beyond these individual success stories, FCA’s vocational training program has made a tangible impact on the Rwamwanja community. The programme’s focus on trades such as tailoring, cosmetics, and agriculture has resulted in the establishment of numerous salons and tailoring firms owned by FCA BTVET graduates.
Parents in the community have witnessed the transformative changes brought about by vocational education. Now youth, who were once passed over, play a crucial role in rebuilding their lives and addressing unemployment challenges. Many graduates have even ventured beyond Kamwenge district, competing for job opportunities in urban centres across the country.
The hope for a better future is being restored, one skill at a time, thanks to FCA’s vocational programme.
Text and Images by Shema Bienvenu: Communications Intern at FCA Uganda
Shema completed secondary school with assistance from FCA and is now studying Journalism and Communication at university. We are honoured that he chose FCA for his internship!
World Refugee Day 2023 – hope away from home in Nakivale, Uganda
Finn Church Aid (FCA) is dedicated to making a profound difference in the lives of refugees residing in Uganda’s refugee settlements. Through the Disaster Relief Funds project, FCA has been able to provide crucial support and educational opportunities to new refugee arrivals in Nakivale Refugee settlement.
Empowering Dreams and Impacting Lives
Ishimwe Emmanuel, an ambitious 18-year-old, had to flee his home in the Democratic Republic of Congo due to escalating violence. His father was killed during the conflict and Ishimwe became the primary source of support for his mother and siblings. Despite adversities, Ishimwe never lost sight of his dream to become a prominent politician.
Taking on multiple responsibilities to generate income, he rented a bicycle to transport and sell water, all while striving to return to school. Ishimwe’s determination paid off when he received scholastic support from FCA, including essential supplies like school bags and books. The impact of this support was profound, reigniting Ishimwe’s motivation to pursue his aspirations and create a positive impact on society.
Refugees like Ishimwe Emmanuel have experienced extraordinary transformations amidst the challenging circumstances they face.
Reflecting on his journey, Ishimwe shares, “the day I received the scholastic support from FCA, I felt a renewed sense of motivation to pursue my dreams and make a positive impact on society. Their support has been instrumental in helping me believe in myself and my abilities.”
Rediscovering passion for learning
Pauline Tumushime, a resilient thirteen-year-old, who is also from the Democratic Republic of Congo, fled her home country in search of safety and found refuge in Uganda with her family. With her father absent since her early childhood, Pauline’s mother, Nyiramugisha, took on the responsibility of providing for her children.
However, the transition to Uganda presented numerous challenges, making access to education seem like an unattainable dream. It was through FCA’s Youth Engagement Centre in Rubondo zone that Pauline found a renewed sense of hope. Engaging in career guidance and counseling sessions, Pauline rediscovered her passion for learning and the joy of forming connections with her peers.
Supported by her mother and the FCA programme, Pauline is determined to pursue her dream of becoming a doctor and making a difference in the lives of others.
Pauline Tumushiime (Centre) with her mother and two sisters, at their home in Nakivale refugee settlement.
“With the support from my mother and the FCA program, I am now filled with hope and determination. I am grateful for the opportunities that FCA has provided, and I am excited to pursue my dream of becoming a doctor.”
Far-reaching impact
The impact of FCA’s commitment to empowering refugee children and youth through education extends far beyond Ishimwe and Pauline.
The Disaster Funds Project has transformed the lives of 1,460 students within Nakivale Refugee settlement. FCA constructed 2 blocks of classrooms at Rubondo Community Secondary School. By providing essential school supplies, career guidance, and psychosocial support, FCA has significantly increased school enrollment and instilled hope in the hearts of young refugees.
Their stories serve as a testament to the power of education in unlocking potential and fostering resilience in the face of adversity.
Pauline receives guidance from her class teacher in her classroom at Rubondo Primary School, Nakivale.
“At FCA we are proud to celebrate the indomitable spirit of young individuals like Ishimwe and Pauline, who have overcome tremendous challenges and are making remarkable strides towards achieving their dreams,” says Wycliffe Nsheka, FCA’s Uganda Country Director.
“Through our ongoing support, we continue to empower dreams and inspire hope among refugee children and youth, fostering a brighter future for themselves and their communities,” he adds.
“Education can have a transformative impact on the lives of refugees. Together, we can make dreams a reality and bring lasting change to the lives of those in need.”
Breaking barriers: FCA Uganda ensures access to education for children with disabilities
Leticia Kanyere is a 14-year-old deaf student. She came to Sweswe Special Needs Education (SNE) Unit after her family heard about their inclusivity scheme. She now stays at the boarding school facilities with her friends, and loves it.
Children with disabilities in refugee settlements are especially vulnerable to stigmatisation, exclusion, isolation, and violence. These barriers limit their abilities to access education, essential services, form relationships with their peers, and foster psychosocial well-being.
“I like the school because it’s easy to make friends. We easily understand each other because we use the same language. In my village, only a few people understand sign language so it’s hard to communicate,” says Leticia, who is doing well in class and wants to become a hairdresser in the future.
Leticia Kanyere is loving her time at Sweswe SNE. Here people know sign language, and communicating is easier. PHOTO: BJÖRN UDD / FCA
In order to provide inclusive education, Finn Church Aid (FCA) constructed a fully-fledged Special Needs Education Unit at Sweswe Primary School in Kyaka II refugee settlement. The unit was a big undertaking and came together thanks to funding from several donors. The Ministry for Foreign Affairs of Finland paid for the unit itself. Then, the U.S department of State, Bureau for Population, Refugees and Migration (PRM) supported the construction of a fence around the SNE unit to enhance the safety of the learners. Finally, the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) supports operations in the school.
The support provided to the SNE unit enhances closer supervision, opportunities for safeguarding, and the ability to identify and address children’s psychological, social, and medical needs. This fosters an inclusive environment where learners can stay in school and feel supported.
The facility launched in 2022 and supports learners from both Kyaka II and the neighbouring Rwamwanja refugee settlement. It opened its doors to children and adolescents with disabilities from host and refugee communities, bringing enormous relief to both the children and their families.
Alex Dusabe, 16, also enjoys coming to school. “I used to have many challenges back home but when I came to Sweswe SNE, I made friends with the teachers, and they support me,” he says.
Many of the students at Sweswe feel the school has helped them make friends. Alex Dusabe is no exception, and has several friends among his classmates. PHOTO: BJÖRN UDD / FCA
Finn Church Aid trains teachers at the facility in special needs education and management so they can both engage with and take care of the learners.
The inclusive environment at the school makes it possible for learners with special needs to stay in school. The blocks at the facility have been constructed with ramps and rails and are accessible by wheelchair. The classrooms are brightly lit to help the visually impaired. Further improvements are planned to make students’ lives easier.
“The toilet facilities are near the dormitories and far from the dining hall. I would be grateful if we could get a boys’ toilet facility closer to the dining,” says Alex, who has a physical disability.
Alex Dusabe is actively involved in suggesting improvements to his school. PHOTO: BJÖRN UDD / FCA
Living Businge, a sign language teacher at the SNE Unit with 12 years’ experience, encourages adolescents and children with disabilities to go to school and access their right to quality education.
He’s had a long interest in the deaf community and decided to learn sign language so he could better support them as a teacher.
“Inclusive education provides learning opportunities to all individuals and caters to the diversity among learners. Among people with physical, sensory, mental, and intellectual disabilities, exclusion from education is most pronounced. The SNE unit at Sweswe presents a chance to eliminate the obstacles to participation and learning for students with severe disabilities that mainstream education cannot accommodate,” says Filbert Idha, the Education Technical Lead at Finn Church Aid.
The boarding school creates a safe environment for the learners, who do not have to travel long distances to school everyday. Here, learners with a physically disability sleep in the lower bunks. PHOTO: BJÖRN UDD / FCA
According to Uganda’s national Education Response Plan (ERP) for refugees and host communities, only 2% of learners with disabilities are enrolled in school (global average: 10%). Nationally, only 172,864 children with special needs (approximately 2% of total primary level enrollment) were enrolled in primary schools in 2022.
Disabilities among children who are refugees are reported to be mobility, cognition and vision, but most commonly anxiety and trauma related disorders.
Contract farming project delivers life-changing benefits for women farmers in Uganda
Traditionally, women have had a hard time making a living in Mityana, a rural town in central Uganda. Women are usually not allowed to own farming land, and the ones who have land at their disposal have had low and unpredictable crop yields. This is something the contract farming project, backed by Women’s Bank and Finn Church Aid, wanted to address.
CONTRACT FARMING is a system in which farmers enter into an agreement with a buyer under predetermined contractual obligations. The farmers produce for the market, as they are already assured that they will have a buyer, and what price they will get for their produce.
In some cases, the buyer might also support the farmers with agrotechnical knowledge, inputs and other production requirements to be assured of the best quality product.
“Before, I struggled to make ends meet. I would plant my crops and hope for the best. But now, I have a contract that guarantees to buy my maize at a fair price. I have also received training on how to improve my farming practices, and I have seen the results in my yields,” says one of the farmers, Celina Nelima, about her experience with contract farming.
With the money Celina Nelima has earned through contract farming and selling chips, she and her husband are building a new house. Picture: Björn Udd / FCA
“With the profits I make, I set up a fast foods business where I sell fried chips to the community in the evenings. I save enough money weekly, and now I am building my dream house. I am grateful to Finn Church Aid for their support,“ Nelima, 34, adds with a big smile.
Increased bargaining power
Finn Church Aid and Women’s Bank help build the linkages between the women farmers and buyers. One of those buyers is Egg Production Uganda Limited (EPL), which is set up by the Women’s Bank. Women are assisted in organising into groups, creating collective bargaining power, to negotiate fair trade deals with the buyers.
FCA and EPL provide women farmers with training and support in the community, such as business literacy, good agricultural practices, Village Savings and Loan Association (VSLA) methodology, gender awareness, leadership and short-term specialized livelihood trainings. Training has improved the lives of the women and helped them access seeds, fertilizers, and other things they need to start their businesses.
Bitamisi Nakibirango was able to start a tailoring shop. Now she makes school uniforms for the nearby schools to earn some extra income. PHOTO: Björn Udd / FCA
The results have been remarkable. The farmers have been able to increase their yields and household income significantly, take their children back to school with ease, access finances for investment through VSLAs, access medical services, gain respect in their communities, and be elected to leadership positions.
Women in control
Through this, the lives of the women farmers have transformed. They are no longer at the mercy of middlemen who would buy their crops at a low price or not at all. They now have a steady income and can plan for the future.
Bitamisi Nakibirango, 52 years says, “I used to walk 7 kilometers to go to the market to sell my produce, now EPL collects the produce from the bulking center which is not far from my home. This has allowed me to save time and money.”
The success of the contract farming system in Mityana has also had a ripple effect in the community. Other farmers have seen the benefits and are now interested in joining the program. Finn Church Aid Uganda continues to work with the farmers to expand the program and ensure its sustainability.
In Mityana, over 700 women, from as many households, with an average of 6 household members each, were introduced to contract farming by Finn Church Aid Uganda (FCA). FCA is a non-profit organization that works to promote sustainable livelihoods in rural communities in a program that was initiated on January 3rd 2021.
