This important project aims to increase access to education for war-affected children and improve the livelihoods of their families in Kitgum District, northern Uganda.

Educational Support

Over the past 6 months, KICWA supported 184 pupils (96 female, 88 male) in primary school and 20 children in pre-primary school (12 female, 8 male) with basic educational support and payment of school fees (nursery) in the sub counties of Lokung, Palebek Kal, Kitgum Matidi, Mucwini, Lagoro, and Padibe West.  The scholastic support included provision of books, pens, pencils, maths sets and sanitary pads to girls in upper primary school.  In addition, KICWA staff conducted a focus group discussion (FGD) with both children and teachers.  The topic of the FGD was ‘what challenges do pupils face in pursuit of their education’ – see findings below.

Findings of FGD

• Interference from the parents who engage their children in manual labour during school hours;
• School syllabuses are often not covered because there are few teachers coupled with the frequent absenteeism of teachers;
• Inadequate follow-up by parents on how their children are performing;
• Long distance to travel by children to school.  This means going without food for the whole day therefore less concentration in class; and
• Pupil to teacher ratio (100:1), which does not promote effective learning.