For $500, you can make sure that secondary student Shirah Owomugisha can continue her education at Ishaka Adventist College. Shirah is 16 years old, and she lives with her grandmother. Her favorite school subjects are English, literature, and biology, and every day she studies hard in order to get good marks on her national exams. A $500 scholarship is enough to cover ALL of Shirah's expenses while she's at school.
Uganda has the highest number of HIV/AIDS orphans in the world, and many of them live in impoverished circumstances. Female students without strong support systems are less likely to complete their education, despite the known benefits of having an education. Without an education, the girls will continue to be ensnared by the cycle of poverty; however, YOU can ensure that Shirah continues to receive her education, which will allow her a better life!
All of our secondary students, like Shirah, receive scholarships to attend school. This covers all expenses and fees, and also includes providing transportation to and from the school. Shirah receives daily care and support, as well as reproductive health counseling. This helps alleviate some of the strain of being an adolescent girl, a difficult time for girls everywhere. Your support will let her continue her education, and continue pursuing her dreams of becoming an accountant!
Having an education will allow our female students to break out of the cycle of poverty, and create opportunities for themselves. They will be less vulnerable to human trafficking, or getting lured into the city for low-wage jobs, because they have other options to pursue. They will be less susceptible to diseases, especially HIV/AIDS, and less prone to early pregnancy. Instead, they will have the chance to take advantage of healthier opportunities that lead to happier lives.
