Keeping 36 Children in School: Stories of Resilience from Masaka

I still remember Amina*, a 13-year-old girl in Masaka City, Uganda, who had almost dropped out of school. Orphaned at a young age and living with a distant relative, she struggled to attend classes regularly. Without school fees, uniforms, or sanitary supplies, every day felt like an uphill battle. Yet her curiosity and love for learning never faded.

Living in Uganda as an Eritrean, I volunteer online as an Education Project Manager Intern with Walkfree Children’s Foundation. Through this initiative, I support 36 vulnerable children aged 5–18, including orphans, survivors of abuse, street-connected children, and others from extremely disadvantaged families who are at high risk of dropping out. Each child has their own story, and every day they show courage and determination that inspires me.

"I never thought I could stay in school, but now I feel I can learn and dream like other children," Amina told me one day. Her words capture the impact of even small interventions, school fees, uniforms, books, homework clubs, and remedial classes that help children remain in class and build confidence. Girls also receive reusable menstrual kits to attend school with dignity, removing barriers that could otherwise force them to miss school for weeks at a time.

Masaka’s communities face many challenges. Families struggle with poverty, and children often take on domestic work or care for younger siblings. Abuse, street life, and social inequality create additional obstacles. These realities mean that education, which should be a right, is a fragile opportunity for many children. Without support, bright minds like Amina’s risk being lost to the cycle of poverty.

The initiative does more than provide financial assistance. By working closely with families, schools, and local communities, we foster environments that encourage children to stay in school. Children like Amina gain not only knowledge but confidence, resilience, and a sense of possibility. I have witnessed timid students begin to participate in class discussions and art performance, previously withdrawn children discover joy in reading, and street-connected children start to envision futures they once thought impossible.

Even though the project supports only 36 children, the ripple effect is profound. Families gain hope, girls gain dignity, and the community gains empowered young citizens. Being part of this initiative has taught me that meaningful change often begins with small, consistent actions. Every uniform, book, and mentoring session is a bridge to a brighter future.

Supporting vulnerable children’s education is not just about keeping them in school it is about giving them a voice, protecting their dignity, and empowering them to dream. My experience has deepened my understanding of the challenges faced by children in underserved communities and strengthened my commitment to creating equitable opportunities for all.

If you would like to support this initiative and help more vulnerable children stay in school, you are welcome to connect with me to learn how you can contribute. Every effort, no matter how small, can help a child continue learning and build a future full of hope.

*Name changed to protect privacy