Our African School

Bees to help fund orphans education

Carla — Fri, 15 Apr 2011 13:26:00 GMT

Bee keeping lessons are to be part of the curriculum at Praise Preparatory Children's Centre in eastern Uganda.

The school plans to make and sell honey as a way of generating income to support the 98 pupils, many of whom are orphans and vulnerable children.

Plans are also underway to establish a series of seminars on agriculture as a way of improving farming methods in the community.

In addition, the school envisages introducing adult literacy education, adding to the HIV/AIDS awareness programme for pupils and the surrounding community, which the school already offers.

These aspirations were announced at the Parents Annual General Meeting on 15 October 2010, where new head teacher Lydia Nandutu said: "All of you will agree with me that in the modern Uganda and the whole world in general, education is the key to everything."

Chairman, Stephen Wakwaale, added: "There is a saying in our community that when teeth come together, a bone is broken. So when we meet together, parents and teachers, problems that affect our children are cleared."

Much of the meeting was devoted to discussion about school funds; and as they come from parents, who are themselves on low incomes, there is an apparent lack.

As a result, pupils are not being sufficiently fed at school, with fewer than 30 pupils paying for the food staples of maize flour and sugar, the ingredients for porridge and pocho (local bread).

Children are also absenting or arriving late to school while parents struggle to pay for books, pencils, folders, Maths equipment, bags, school uniform and exam fees, which need to be paid twice a year.

In addition, there is also a need for desks and chairs as pupils in the Primary 1 class only have mats to sit on.

The school does not own its own land, but is fortunate in that a member of the community, L Wabuti, who has since died, offered the use of their premises to the school.

Despite a lack of finance, the students continue to do well in athletics, sports and games, dance, drama and music; coming second in a sub county music competition.

The fact that the school continues to deliver education is a testimony to the members of staff who volunteer to work because there is not enough money to pay them.

Orphans of school-age head up families

Liz — Sun, 25 Jul 2010 01:57:00 GMT

A school in a district of Uganda, where the youth make up 85% of the population, is striving to support pupils who care for their families.

St Gertrude Nakatete Primary School in Masaka, Lwengo district, supports 255 pupils, of which 65 are either orphans or disadvantaged. "The area was affected by HIV and Aids and we have many orphan-headed families," writes head teacher Paul Kanusu.

The school, which is connected to the Nakatete sub-parish church, is also tackling issues to do with poverty and illiteracy. English, Reading and Writing, and Agriculture are three of the subjects on the curriculum, reflecting the importance of subsistence farming in the locality. "The area has a big problem of poverty, high levels of illiteracy, a high percentage of orphanage and poor shelter. The good thing is the area has fertile soils for agriculture but use of ordinary tools like hoes, knives and axes are the order of the day," writes the head teacher. He adds: "People are hardworking, good believers, welcoming and caring."

Eleven teachers and six non-teaching staff support pupils aged 5-15 in a number of other subjects including Science, Maths, Religious Education, SST, Arts and crafts, Drawing, and Games and sports.

School carries on despite landslide threat

Liz — Sun, 25 Jul 2010 00:15:00 GMT

Despite the threat of landslides, a school in Manafwa, Eastern Uganda, continues to provide education for it's pupils.

In May, a 40km-crack developed on the slopes of Mt. Elgon in Manafwa district, threatening about 8,000 residents in eight sub-counties. ...On 1 March, about 400 people were killed by mudslides in Bududa, when three villages were buried. Bududa stands north of Manafwa on the Elgon slopes.

Read the full story at: http://www.newvision.co.ug/D/8/12/719939

While the constant rain and cold conditions has affected attendance, students at Praise Preparatory Children's Centre in Bukhaweka are enjoying music and drama activities. The range of music classes include western choral singing, traditional folks songs, solo, sight-singing, instrument composition. Pupils also enjoy drama original composition and poetry lessons. However, the school, which is funded by the local church, lacks instruments, costumes and props. One teacher writes: "We could be doing well if we had these things. But nevertheless we are always challenging the Government Aided schools."

Students are also showing aptitude in sport, but again they are hindered by a lack of equipment. The Games master, Mt Muse Mark is in need of a whistle and a teaching manual, and the pupils require footballs, netballs, volleyballs and sports wear. Many students don't have a uniform or shoes and those who do lack pullovers, which are necessary, given the current climate. In the classrooms, the situation is similar with insufficient furtniture: desks, chairs, blackboards, cupboards; and inadequate scholastic materials: books, pens, pencils and crayons.

Despite a lack of facilities, students are succeeding academically and the pupils that sat the Primary Leaving Examinations (PLE) passed onto secondary school. This year however, a fundamental deficit of teachers, means the school have had to cancel the Primary 7 class, the final year of primary education. In all other year groups, the numbers of students are increasing, with a rise in the number of vulnerable children - many who are HIV positive - seeking an education.

While the families of a few pay for their children's education, most have no money, and a high percentage of the pupils are orphans with no supporting relatives. The school is therefore need of financial assistance. Crucially, donations are needed to build latrines, without which the school is unfit for pupils. "Because of this, we are operating in someone's premises," explains a teacher.

My Visit and Prize Day

Ross — Thu, 22 Apr 2010 12:33:00 GMT

My visit to Blessed Hill was towards the end of my 2-month stay in Uganda and, as such, it was at the end of term when I got there. Unfortunately this meant that I didn't have much time in the school itself, but I was lucky enough to be there for the end of term prizegiving day at which I was invited to be the guest of honour. I was pleased to see that the vast majority of students there were extremely commited to their education, and many received the prize of their very own pen for doing so well.

I learned so much from my trip to Africa that it would be impossible to write it down but my overall feeling is that, while they have so much to learn from us, we also have a huge amount to learn from them.

Alliance Academy of Hope: An overview

Carla — Mon, 05 Apr 2010 08:05:00 GMT

Currently a nursery and primary school offering traditional subjects, the Alliance Academy of Hope in Eastern Uganda has a vision to turn out A-level graduates in a number of practical subjects. Plans to offer courses in wood work, agriculture, brick laying, computer literacy, home economics and carpentry are high on the agenda at the school in Nabweya sub-county, Manjiya county.

One of the school's central objectives - to meet the labour requirements of the community - is reflected in the school's mission statement: To produce enlightened citizens with industrious skills for self-reliance, rather than job seekers. The school committee know they have set themselves a high standard and are commited to hard work, as suggested by the school motto: If wishes were horses, all beggars could ride.

Currently the school consists of a central building with two main teaching classrooms and a library. With an increasing number of students, the priority is to construct more classrooms. The plan is then to build administration offices, a three-roomed workshop for vocational subjects and a room for a computer. The school committee also hope to construct male and female dormitories for students, accommodation for staff, a kitchen and a dining hall. The vision also includes a playground and a school truck. Eventually the school will be able to support 280 students, including orphans and vulnerable children, through primary, secondary and further education.

The school, which is 38 kilometres from Mbale, is funded through some government grants and donations from parents, friends of the school and members of the Parent Teachers Association (PTA). At a recent meeting, parents offered to give lectures at the school, proposed Geography and History field trips and suggested Science-related tours of a local factory and post-office. The school currently offers English Language, English Literature, Kiswakiki, Maths, Science, Social Studies, Fine Art and Music at primary level.

As well as developing students academically, the school is keen to encourage physical strength and leadership skills through games, sports and social clubs. In November 2009, the school took fourth place in a district level music competition and two pupils have qualified to represent the school and district in netball at national level.

Nawaka United Primary School: An overview

Carla — Sun, 04 Apr 2010 21:59:00 GMT

Not only does Nawaka United Primary School in Eastern Uganda teach it's pupils, it also educates the wider community.The school involves Bunamubi pashioners in income-generating activities and teaches adults, many of whom are illiterate, about the need for a good education.

A member of the school committee commented: "The motto of the school is 'God is our fortress' meaning that Nawaka United School is a place that will strengthen education, and Almighty God gives security and protection to the school."

Formed in 2005, the school in Shamukhama village, Bukigai sub-county, Bududa district, caters for both day and boarding students.There are currently 104 students in the five primary classes, many of whom are disadvantaged.

St Benard Junior School: An Overview

Carla — Sun, 04 Apr 2010 18:06:00 GMT

“Strive to succeed” is the motto of St Benard Junior School, in the Bududa District of Eastern Uganda. And it’s mission? To produce citizens who are academically competent, morally upright and self reliant.

The school has grown significantly since it opened in 2007 with 15 students. Of the current 55 pupils attending the nursery or primary classes, 20 are orphans, and as such are supported completely by the school.

Although the school has three classrooms of it's own, there is not enough room for all five classes and pupils in Primary 3 and 4 classes take their lessons in rented accommodation nearby in the Buluchehe sub-county.

As well as a classroom block, the school building comprises of an office, shelter, toilet, kitchen, and three-quarters of an acre playing field, which students use to practice netball, football, volleyball and athletics. Director Vincent Matamba is proud of the school’s regular appearance in competitions: at centre level in music, dance and drama, and at district level.in table tennis.

In addition to five teachers and three support staff, the school also has an board of directors, many of whom helped found the school.

God’s Gift Primary School: An overview

Carla — Sun, 04 Apr 2010 03:47:00 GMT

God’s Gift Primary School, in the Bugisu region of Eastern Uganda, caters for orphans, whose parents have died from AIDS, and vulnerable children. In both cases, the pupils are dependent upon the financial support of the church community, who pay for school fees and materials, and medical care.

In February 2008, the school consisted of 68 children in three classes. Now in 2010, there are 164 pupils in five classes, of which 100 are orphans. Executive Director Titus Wambette is worried that the Namaitsu village community will be unable to support any more beneficiaries. Already 15 of the teachers are volunteers, receiving a tiny allowance, and staff are trying to find external funding for the construction of school shelters.

As well as offering traditional subjects, such as Religious Education, and creative subjects, such as Music, Dance and Drama, the school specialises in teaching students technical skills as a means to earning a future living. Many of the farming communities in and around Bukima parish in the Bududa Sub County of Bududa District use methods that have been passed down through generations, but the school is keen to give students a knowledge of new and more effective systems. As well as teaching agriculture, the school also offers studies in Environment Protection and Poverty Reduction. The school also plans to train members of the community to set up and run income-generating activities and small businesses.

The school, whose objective is to foster good morals based on Christian principles, also promotes health education. As well as teaching HIV and Aids awareness in class, staff plan to facilitate counselling in the local villages and support families affected by the virus.

Bunamubi Primary School: An overview

Carla — Sun, 04 Apr 2010 01:28:00 GMT

Bunamubi Priamary School opened in 1948 under the umbrella of the Church of Uganda. Even though it became a Government-aided school in 1983, it is reliant upon the support of parents. The families of the pupils came to the rescue, when the original four classrooms started collapsing, and were able to erect a temporary structure. However both sets of rooms are now in need of significant repair. Parents are also called upon to provide books, pens and uniform for the pupils. At a recent parents evening a suggestion was made that parents also pay for text books and contribute towards the cost of more frequent examinations. One parent commented: "The upkeep is very hard seeing that this is the school for the poor."

With no staff quarters to house the teachers who travel great distances to reach Mangiya County in the Bududa District, staff often arrive late and are forced to leave school early. Children also arrive late, ironically because they are required to leave the area before school begins. Without a nearby water supply, local children often travel miles to collect water and are subsequently late for lessons. The tardiness of both staff and students has had an impact on the academic performance of the pupils. As soon as the school secures external funding, the priority is to build staff accommodation, classrooms and an administration block.

In December 2009, the school had 796 pupils and 14 teachers; a teacher to pupil ratio of 1:72. Some students, however, are progressing despite the conditions, The Primary 7 students of 2009, for example, faired better than their cohort in 2008. Of a total of 58 candidates in the final year of primary education, 12 were referred to Division 2, 14 to Division 3, six to Division 4, 22 to Division U and four to Division X.

Despite a lack of kit, in 2009, the school took part in several sporting competitions at a national level; Two students took part in an athletics event, three boys went though to a football competition and in netball, four girls took part. The school also qualified to be involved in the National Scouting competition held in Uganda's capital, Kampala. Headteacher Wilson Peter Kotaki is also proud of the school's musical talent. In 2009, one student participated in a centre-level competition.

St Stephen's: An overview

Carla — Sun, 04 Apr 2010 01:07:00 GMT

Under the guidance of headteacher Eryrdt Wandeka, the school caters for a large number of students and offers a wide range of courses including English, Maths, Geography, History, Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Agriculture, Communication, Music, and Technology and Design.

As well as an opportunity to take part in debates each week, the school offers students the chance to play sport to a high standard. School athletes have been commended at District-level and student footballers enjoy taking part in inter-house competitions. Netball is also a popular sport.

The school prides itself the implementation of the Presidential Initiative on Aids Strategy for Communication to the Youth (PIASCY) and also offers sexual reproductive health education for teenagers.

Exam results at St Stephen's

Carla — Sun, 04 Apr 2010 00:54:00 GMT

The O level students at St Stephen's Comprehensive Secondary School in Mbale, have received their 2009 exam results. 71 students sat papers in a range of subjects including English, Maths, Geography, History, Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Agriculture, Communication, Music, and Technology and Design. Several of the students achieved straight grade 9s in all subjects. They are Rachael Nakhayenze, Annet Agatha Shimiyu, Sarah Samanya and Luke Wesswa. Congratulations also go to Beatrice Kilande who received one grade 8 and the rest, grade 9s.

3rd term results for P5 class

Carla — Sun, 04 Apr 2010 00:27:00 GMT

Congratulations are in order for the Primary 5 students of Nawaka United Primary School as the marks for the 3rd term of 2009 are in.

The students with the top scores are Zainabu Nabutuwa with a total score of 313, Alex Ndelema with 309 marks, David Kakala with a total score of 286 marks, Leah Khayiyi with 274 marks, Sarah Maboga with a total score of 269, Dorothy Wabuyaka with 258 marks, Francis Wandeba with a total score of 254 marks, Junior Kamoti with 249 marks, Khatua Nabulumbi with a total score of 248, Fred Nanltoti with 240 marks, Juliet Butteme with a total score of 239, Moses Ivan Namono with 231 marks and Sylvia Nandutu with a total score of 230.

The students were marked in a number of areas including English, Maths, Science and Social Studies and Technology (SST).

Other students in the class who also attained good grades are: Ivan Mutayi, Moses Mutinye, Peter Wakwaale, Thomas Wanaaltutu, Sam Wabwire and Juma Nasitya.

3rd term results for P4 class

Carla — Sun, 04 Apr 2010 00:12:00 GMT

Congratulations are in order for the Primary 4 students of Nawaka United Primary School as the marks for the 3rd term of 2009 are in.

The students with the top scores are Judith Khalayi with a total score of 396, Godfrey Walela with 387 marks, Lillian Kibune with a total score of 363 marks, Aziza Kibone with 361 marks, Topister Nabifo with a total score of 344, Aisha Nabulo with 295 marks, Joshua Mukute with a total score of 290, Susan Kakayi with 286 marks, Bomic Wabusimba with a total score of 285, Stephen Majeme with 283 marks, Moses Wanyenya with 270 marks, Irene Wandala with a total score of 268, Rogers Kuloba with 263 marks, Margret Wekesa with a total score of 258, Brenda Nabulo with 249 marks, Phina Namutos with a total score of 245 and Bosco Makhambaya with 231 marks.

The students were marked in a number of areas including Reading, Writing, Maths, English, Social Studies and Technology (SST) and Science.

Other students in the class who also attained good grades are Astone Wanja, Justine Lubango, Agatta Namutosi, Ivan Wakoko, Ali Kwomu, Sulaiman Wateya, Denis Kimaleni, Silaji Natsami, Alice Namakoye, Anna Webombisa and Martha Namee.

3rd term results for P3 class

Carla — Sun, 04 Apr 2010 00:01:00 GMT

Congratulations are in order for the Primary 3 students of Nawaka United Primary School as the marks for the 3rd term of 2009 are in.

The students with the top scores are Dorothy Khayinza with a total score of 481, Grace Neboshe with 458 marks, Andrew Wayengleera with a total score of 442 marks, Sam Ivan Bukakhali with 415 marks, Joyce Nabafu with a total score of 387, Rebecca Mukwana with 333 marks, Mike Wanatoya with a total score of 331, Ismail Kutosi with 331 marks, Tonny Kamoti with a total score of 312, Jalia Namutosi with 294 marks, Ronard Peter Kutosi with a total score of 282, Nassan Mayamba with 244 marks, Emmanuel Wambi with a total score of 231, Ronard Kutosi with 187 marks, Joyce Nabushawu with a total score of 153 and Jane Bisikwa with 140 marks.

The students were marked in a number of areas including English, Maths, Science, Social Studies, Reading, Writing, Fine Art and Hand work.

Other students in the class include Derick Mauki and Ivan Moomo.

3rd term results for P2 class

Carla — Sat, 03 Apr 2010 23:52:00 GMT

Congratulations are in order for the Primary 2 students of Nawaka United Primary School as the marks for the 3rd term of 2009 are in.

The students with the top scores are Sharon Mandala with a total score of 725, Vicent Masaba with 693 marks, Shadrack Tzapwe with a total score of 666 marks, Emma Kibeti with 649 marks, Asuman Majeme with a total score of 646, Geofry Wakooba with a total score of 623 marks, Emma Khaemba with 548 marks, Zainabu Nasaka with a total score of 508, Ali Mundesi with 442 marks, Pius Bunyila with a total score of 428, Irene Mutonyi with 417 marks, Ivah Modoi with a total score of 390 and Ibra Shikunzu with 307 marks.

The students were marked in a number of areas including English, News, Literacy, Religious Education (RE), Oral Reading, Physical Education (PE) and Maths.

Other students in the class include Deborah Bisikwa and Peace Namwano.

3rd term results for P1 class

Carla — Sat, 03 Apr 2010 23:40:00 GMT

Congratulations are in order for the Primary 1 students of Nawaka United Primary School as the marks for the 3rd term of 2009 are in.

The students with the top scores are Dan Muwelba with a total score of 398, Diana Nabafu with 215 marks, Vicent Wambete with a total score of 365 marks, Ema Shison with 359 marks, Ema Makayi with a total score of 341, Esther Seera with 332 marks, Shanks Musaba with a total score of 331 marks, Kasim Wabusa with 326 marks, John Namutolo with a total score of 309, Ema Busiku with 276 marks, Ali Wakwale with a total score of 276, Alon Wamoto with 238 marks, Susan Kakayi with a total score of 236, Juliet Namalwa with 231 marks, Esther Khamalwa with a total score of 215 and Sharon Namono with 209 marks.

The students were marked in a number of areas including English, News, Literacy, Religious Education (RE) and Maths.

Other students in the class who also attained good grades are: James Wamono, Brian Wamayosi, Bosco Wamayosi, Joel Wanambwa, Amina Nabushuu, Phiona Nambuya, Ali Weena and Esther Naluboka.

3rd term results for P6 class

Carla — Sat, 03 Apr 2010 22:40:00 GMT

Congratulations are in order for the Primary 6 students of Alliance Academy of Hope as the marks for the 3rd term of 2009 are in.

The students with the top scores are Apal Wabuya with a total score of 309, Joan Nashale with 309 marks, Agatha Nalazo with 304 marks, Mica Wakoto with a total score of 288 marks, Davi Shimar with 285 marks, Moses Wayenya with a total score of 284, Ver Namutosi with 279 marks, D Warambwa with a total score of 276 marks, Pat Namaka with 274 marks, Sam Makampala with a total score of 271, Nathan Wakwale with 269 marks, Sarah Khabuya with a total score of 267, Peace Kalenda with 265 marks and John Buruesi with a total score of 260.

The students were marked in a number of areas including English, Maths, Science and Social Studies and Technology (SST).

Other students in the class who also attained good grades are: Jac Nabutsale, Jac Nakougelwo, John Shimuli, Patric Shibulo, Dom Waboroko, Paul Netouje, Paul Wamutu, Jack Mauki, Martin Kamobi, Grace Wabule, Sara Buteme, Aidee Nasaka, Wilson Wayila, James Wabuna, Job Wandede, James Nataka, Andon Masaba, Pat Wamasa, Wiliam Wenwa, Grace Nabutwa, Amos Makayi, Sam Zawu, John Welekeya, O Mashebebe, Sam Wamini and Yusifu Namdila.

3rd term results for P5 class

Carla — Sat, 03 Apr 2010 22:13:00 GMT

Congratulations are in order for the Primary 5 students of Alliance Academy of Hope as the marks for the 3rd term of 2009 are in.

The students with the top scores are M Wamzonela with a total score of 333,John Namnara with 339 marks, Fred Kamozi with a total score of 323 marks, Justine Nabulo with 320 marks, Fran Muhhwana with 319 marks, Stephen Wakarele with a total score of 318, Jack Wabomba with 318 marks, P Kibukuna with 316 marks, Mary Wataka with a total score of 314 marks, Martin Wabuko with 312 marks, Henry Nambale with a total score of 310, Peace Namuya with a total score of 308, Vicent Namaka with 301 marks and Jackson Kulsha with a total score of 300.

The students were marked in a number of areas including English, Maths, Science and Social Studies and Technology (SST).

Other students in the class who also attained good grades are: Justine Nambuya, Jus Namakougolyo, Shallom Bukocele, Joyce Nabelo, Betty Nabutuwa, Ben Bwayo, Ben Mabala, James Bwayo, Mary Namalutu, Flavier Khayiyi, H Wanzuuala, St Wanzunata, Sam Kakala, Jane Seera, Kutosi, Justice Khabuya, Demma Namesup, Joseph Wabizi, Michael Zaale, Paul Mubono, Aison Natyela, Paul Masembe, James Wanyisi, Andon Namoudo, Tim Makulo and Patric Wakhouya.

3rd term results for P4 class

Carla — Sat, 03 Apr 2010 21:47:00 GMT

Congratulations are in order for the Primary 4 students of Alliance Academy of Hope as the marks for the 3rd term of 2009 are in.

The students with the top scores are Charrles Waneloba with a total score of 344, Lydia Nasaka with 341 marks, D Wamanga with a total score of 339 marks, D Wanzysi with 335 marks, F Wanteka with a total score of 324, Geo Wamon with 320 marks, O Namakongoly with a total score of 320 marks, F Maneshe with 319 marks, B Kulob with a total score of 318, A Matanda with 315 marks, L Namwano with a total score of 312, Jes Bumen with 308 marks, B Kampila with a total score of 301 and J Namukhono with 300 marks.

The students were marked in a number of areas including English, Maths, Science and Social Studies and Technology (SST).

Other students in the class who also attained good grades are: Isac Buziba, Lidia Katisi, B Wamundu, Ev Nakuti, E Wamanga, Em Wakwele, C Wakobu, Paul Busiku, A Wabuna, Em Kituno, C Watsosi, L Wanasolo, G Khainza, L Nasaka, R Wambete, A Wanyanga, F Natundu, Peter Mukhowe, Esther Seera, Jackson Wafaka, Musa Namonyo, John Wasabulo, David Mwolobi, Bifosi Wamame, Jane Bukosela, Micheal Wesaka and Paul Wamgwe.

3rd term results for P3 class

Carla — Sat, 03 Apr 2010 21:22:00 GMT

Congratulations are in order for the Primary 3 students of Alliance Academy of Hope as the marks for the 3rd term of 2009 are in.

The students with the top scores are James Nabuboya with a total score of 300, Jackson Namondo with 292 marks, Ivan Kikai with a total score of 280 marks, Jacob Buruesi with 277 marks, R Namalwa with a total score of 275, Peace Nabutsebi with 273 marks, Jul Namasopo with a total score of 273 marks, Ivan Kimanayi with 273 marks, Ronald Wamboka with a total score of 271, Rogers Museme with 262 marks, Menda Nabulo with a total score of 259, James Kutosi with 250 marks, Florence Namdutu with a total score of 248 marks, Derick Weana with 247 marks, Kevina Seera with a total score of 246 and James Kakala with 236 marks.

The students were marked in a number of areas including English, Maths, Science and Social Studies and Technology (SST).

Other students in the class who also attained good grades are: Anet Bulaki, Edward Kodeki, Denis Mutsaka, Alex Wakwale, Lilian Namwamba, Brenda Namalwa, Ivan Wamayosi, Alex Newvmbe, Fred Wamasebe, Nusula Maneshe, Phoebe Buwenje, Christopher Kutosi, Jackson Namondo, Musa Kulobu and Fred Matsatsa.

3rd term results for P2 class

Carla — Sat, 03 Apr 2010 20:49:00 GMT

Congratulations are in order for the Primary 2 students of Alliance Academy of Hope as the marks for the 3rd term of 2009 are in.

The students with the top scores are Ben Walane with a total score of 313, Lilian Katisi with 302 marks, Betty Namnano with a total score of 300 marks, Benz Wakyaya with 296 marks, John Kutosi with a total score of 294, Geof Kabale with 291 marks, Mary Seera with a total score of 294 marks, David Mandu with 280 marks, Irine Namnano with a total score of 279, Wil Shimenya with 278 marks, Emma Wakwale with a total score of 278, Sam Kumali with 273 marks and Elinest Malisa with a total score of 272.

The students were marked in a number of areas including English, Maths, Science, Social Studies and Technology (SST), Drawing, Writing, Reading numbers, General Knowledge, Oral Learning and Intellegence.

Other students in the class who also attained good grades are: Alex Mutsakay, C Namnano, Sar Nandutu, Makia Naraba, Winnie Nabulo, Emmely Seera, Karina Hawaka, Pall Mandu, M Nabutsale, Ken Makuma, Joy Namyeka, Shal Nabutsale, Joan Seera, Geof Shiza W, Josie Wama, Florence Kakai, Joel Wabuna, Alice Walayo, Pena Namasa, Ben Kutosi, Charles Naboya, John Mungai, Joseph Makhame, Jack Wanzusi, Jane Watsemba, Paul Wabuna and Apoll Mweleyi.

3rd term results for P1 class

Carla — Sat, 03 Apr 2010 13:50:00 GMT

Congratulations are in order for the Primary 1 students of Alliance Academy of Hope as the marks for the 3rd term of 2009 are in.

The students with the top scores are Babra Wabutsale with a total score of 587, Doreen Seera with 586 marks, Emmer Muboki with a total score of 572 marks, Deric Muboki with 580 marks, Susan Nambuya with a total score of 569, Joan Namalala with 567 marks, Scot Nakhayenze with a total score of 555 marks, Peace Wazemba with 543 marks, Benard Lumako with a total score of 525, Yowab Washi with 522 marks, Reachal Nabulo with a total score of 518, Esther Kamali with 514 marks, Emma Wanzala with a total score of 506, Anet Kalenda with 503 marks, Aife Nabutsale with a total score of 497 and Moses Wanzala with 492 marks.

Other students in the class who also attained good grades are: Doreen Kalenda, Shimm Namyeka, Jane Wabuyaka, Charles Bumesi, Winnie Waboya, Lona Namasup, Shack Wambete, Mick Wannono, Joy Khwaka, Regina Nabulo, P Mukhwama, S Nabushao, Esther Bulali, Doren Nakuti, W Wandendeya, Hen Nakhouje, Phoe Mukhwama, Eva Katisi, Joel Mukhwano, Dison Lutele, Juliet Nabusano, Joseph Nakuti and Moses Wakoko.

Kigali Harvest School: An overview

Carla — Wed, 06 Jan 2010 19:57:00 GMT

Kigali Harvest School supports 286 students from Primary 1 to Primary 6 classes. It is associated with Evangelical Restoration Church in Kigali, the capital of Rwanda. Timothy Subika is the pastor for both the school and the nearby church of Kimihurura. Headteacher Madame Esperence has recently established links with Victoria Junior school in Barrow-in-Furness in the UK.

Blessed Hill School: An overview

Carla — Wed, 06 Jan 2010 19:43:00 GMT

Blessed Hill School Boarding and Day Primary School was founded by Director Sarah Sabiiti in 2008. It has grown from seven students to 78. Sixty of the pupils are orphans and many board in the two dormitaries, which can house up to 30 students each. As well as a headteacher and administrator, the school has nine teaching and two support staff. The school motto is to "educate a child for a better future" and the vision of the school is to "provide quality education - physicallly, spiritually and mentally - with an emphasis on good behaviour". In addition to academic studies, students play football and netball to a competative level and enagage in dance and drama. A group of students made a video about their school focussing on the topics of sports and games, discipline, nutrition, uniform, transport and the history and locality of the school. It will be uploaded to this site soon.

New buildings needed at Godronah School

Carla — Wed, 06 Jan 2010 17:37:00 GMT

By Herbert, 13, Agnes, 13, Natasha, 15, Victoria, 12, Ivan, 15, Tom, 15, Juliet, 13, Ribent, 14, Jannet, 13, Lydia, 13, and Prossy, 13.

Godronah Nursery and Primary School in the village of Kinoni, Uganda, provides education for 200 students, 100 of them are orphans. They are helped by Kinoni Full Gospel Church which is on the same site as the school in the Masaka district.

Director of the school and pastor of the church, Henry Kateregga, said: "I feel bad because I only have three classrooms at present and it's not enough for the children." He added: "I plan to have more buildings, at least three news buildings."

The existing rooms are divided by papyrus screens to create enough classes but the government officials do not allow this. They have the authority to close the school. Pastor Henry said: "This is why it's so pressing to build new classrooms. Without walls, the noise of the two classes comes together and confuses the students. They can't understand what the teacher is teaching."

'Everything is possible'
As soon as the pastor gets money, he will start building. He said: "I don't have the money just yet, but I am praying for assistance. Just now, I can't say if we will start tomorrow or next month." He added: "I will be happy when the plans happen. I am sure they will happen because with God, everything is possible. I am praying that God can put me in contact with some people who can assist me."

Plans in detail
He wants to build five news classrooms, two dormitories, a store, a kitchen, a library and an office. He will need bricks, sand, cement and iron sheets.

'Raise standards'
Pastor Henry has enough land for all the new buildings. He will build opposite the church and near to the road. It is also possible to extend on the side of the existing block. He said: "I will be happy when I have the news buildings."

Head teacher Mr Dickson Kakumba added: "They will help raise standards."

New buildings are needed, especially a dormitory section. Pastor Henry said: "We don't have enough buildings and a boarding section would mean students could stay at school. Many come from a long way away."

'Stop drop out'
At Godronah, 70 per cent of students are "born again". However, in their community they face many temptations to take part in anti-social behaviours. Head teacher Mr Dickson said: "If the school had dormitories, it would help the students lead a Christian life and they would not drop out of school."

Value of books
He added: "I feel bad when I don't have library books, but I will feel good when I have a library. At present, the library has 28 books. They are kept in the safe. Mr Dickson said: "It is knowledge that the students come for, so I have to put them under safe-keeping." He added that in the future he would like at least 100 text books.

Brain food
He would also like a kitchen. He said: "I feel bad when I don't have a cook, but I will feel good when I have a cook. If we had a kitchen, the students could have lunch and breakfast on time. This would help learning and increase punctuality."

He added: "I feel bad when I don't have a store but I will feel good when I have a store in the future."

Escaping poverty in the future
He also wants 400 desks in the future. At present he has 15.

The headmaster described how poverty affects the school: "At school there are not enough exercise books. Also parents and guardians can't afford to pay school fees. The school buildings need plastering. At the moment, they are a poor learning environment." He thinks these problems can be solved by building more classrooms and rehabilitating the existing classrooms and buying more exercise books.

Future aspirations
At Godronah, there are 200 pupils but in the future it is hoped that there will be 800.

Forty per cent of the pupils wear uniforms but in the future, the head teacher hopes there will be 100 per cent of pupils wearing uniforms.

Last year, five students won free secondary school places by the government. Headmaster Mr Dickson said: "Next year, I want 14 candidates to be given government secondary education."

There are 12 teachers at the school but in the future, it is hoped that there will be 18 teachers.

Teachers have their say
The teachers explained the problems at school and the benefits that new buildings would bring:

Mr Evarlist, who teaches Maths, said: "Students are not picking up at a high level." He thinks that with new buildings, there will be more students.

Mr Harrington, who teaches Science, said: " Students are lacking enough food." He thinks the school will get classrooms for pupils to attend lessons and enough rooms to keep school property.

Mr Omar is 20-years-old. He teaches SST. Problems he faces at school are some students coming late at school. One advantage of the school is that it is different from other schools.

Students have their say
Students from Primary 1 to Primary 7 classes explained what they liked about school and what would improve the school:

Scovia, aged 8, likes to study, learn and to play in the playground. She said: "School would be better by constructing buildings and playing football."

Babra is 14-years-old and likes to study and play netball. She said: "Things that would make school better are an office and a library."

Ivan, aged 13, likes to study and use the playground. He said: "School would be better if there were good buildings."

Abdu, aged 9, likes to study, learn and play in the playground. He said: "School would be better by constructing buildings and singing."

Harriet is 14 years-old. She likes studies. Her best subject is English. She likes games like netball. She said: "School will be better when I pass my exams."

Jackline, aged 9, likes to study and play netball. She said: "School would be better if there were good buildings."

Richard, aged 11, likes to study, learn and play in the playground. He said: "School would be better by constructing buildings and playing football."