Our trimestral reports are written by Susan Laker for our Kampala programs and by Aidah Wafula for our Jinja programs. In addition to our Child-Sponsorship Program we run additional programs throughout the year benefitting all children and their community. This report shows the programs that have been running the trimester January-March 2023.
1. EDUCATION
Jinja
During this time, we received the results of the Primary Leaving Examinations (PLE) on January. The PLE serves as a transitional examination from primary to secondary school, and the results filled us with pride and joy as all 13 sponsored students not only passed but excelled. Three students, Kisakye Miriam, Sanya Eliot, and Kaleebi Joseph Derrick, achieved the highest honors with first grades. Additionally, five students secured second grades, while the remaining students performed well with third-grade results. This success guarantees a brighter future for our little ones, as all of them qualified for secondary education.
In terms of extracurricular activities, our students continued to have their computer classes, making the most of the students' free time during the holidays.
Kampala
Much like Jinja, the beginning of the year in Kampala was characterized by preparations for the upcoming school year. The Primary Leaving Examinations (PLE) results, released at the end of January, revealed an exceptional performance by our 13 sponsored students. Mirroring Jinja's success, all students passed and qualified for secondary education.
We continued to run parents meetings, which are a very important forum for us for discussing the importance of healthy behaviors, parental responsibilities, adherence to program terms and conditions, and the importance of participating to the saving groups.
Also in Kampala, the computer classes continued to run smoothly, helping our students to enhance their computer literacy skills.
2. NUTRITION PROGRAM
Jinja
Our nutrition program in Jinja remained focused on providing weekend meals for sponsored children during January. With most students returning home for the holidays, we recorded a highy attendance during these Saturday meals.
Kampala
Kampala's nutrition program flourished, with Sunday lunches benefiting 143 children. These meals not only contributed to improved health but also ensured that the children enjoyed balanced diets. Even our boarding school students were included in the Sunday lunch program, as we bring the lunch to their schools, emphasizing our commitment to their well-being and wa well balanced diet.
3. HEALTH AND EYE-CARE PROGRAM
Jinja
The health and eye-care program in Jinja experienced a relatively quiet trimester. There were no new visits to the eye doctor for children, but we did follow up with former beneficiaries who received eye glasses during a recent visit to the Kyamulibwa Optician school.
In terms of health, we did receive some reports of illness among the sponsored children. Most cases were advised to be privately handled. However, severe cases of malaria necessitated referrals to the St. Nic medical clinic for specialized care, which we were able to handle.
Kampala
In Kampala, Anena Beatrice, a beneficiary of our program, faced a health challenge—a goiter that required surgical intervention. Unfortunately, the surgery date remained unscheduled due to her ongoing emotional trauma following the loss of her daughter, Atim Scovia, in September.
4. SMALL BUSINESS PROGRAM
Jinja
The Small Business program in Jinja underwent a transition in the administration. Responsibility shifted from the local Managers of 22STARS Jinja to a locally instituted committee of beneficiary members. This transition was communicated effectively to our beneficiaries, and a general meeting was scheduled for the formation of the committee.
Kampala
In Kampala, we also had the same shift of responsibility within the administration of the program. The Small Business program continued to run smoothly, as weekly meetings with the small business loan committee members ensured proper loan repayment and allowed for effective monitoring of the businesses. The committee members expressed satisfaction with the program's progress, highlighting its positive impact on their lives.
The Small Business program in Kampala continued to empower our women beneficiaries, fostering financial independence and economic growth.
5. CONCLUSION
The NGO's holistic approach continues to positively impact the community, focusing on education, health, nutrition, entrepreneurship, and music.
Goals include sustained provision of nutritious meals, enlargement of microloan availability, expansion of computer literacy, and continued music program development.
This trimester showcased the 22stars foundation's commitment to its holistic approach to education and community development. The Foundation continues to make a positive impact through its programs, reaching children and families in need. The ongoing support of donors, sponsors, and community engagement remains crucial for achieving the foundation's goals and empowering Ugandan communities.
