For several years, the Tuungane women’s microcredit group, located in the Kyangwali Refugee Settlement in Uganda, had requested adult education – specifically English classes. Having a speaking knowledge of English will give them a business advantage – for example, to help them better negotiate with buyers when selling their produce. If allowed to immigrate, having a speaking knowledge of English will give them a huge advantage as they adjust to their new countries.
In 2013 we started an education program in Kyangwali. Class subjects include business development, English, nutrition and health, family management. Students receive certificates as they advance.
Our goal is to keep the program as low cost as possible so it can be expanded. The first school structure had a roof and open walls; a few years later walls, windows and doors were added. In 2017 external walls were covered with a protective mixture of sand / cement. The women participated in the construction of the school, doing much of the work themselves.
Everist Ntuyenabo teaches classes in Swahili. Many of the women never started school or had it interrupted because of war. Many of the women are learning to sign their name's and read for the first time. Everist’s wife and mother both received microcredit loans. Everist is the project's school master.
Joseph teaches English and also actively participates in the school.
The women are extremely motivated students and take great pride in what they learn. And, they become role models for their families and community. They all desperately want to have the economic ability to send their children to school.
Women's School Celebration. Women sing about Peopleweaver & Coburwas organizations.