Mobilizing communities to ensure girls return to school post-COVID-19 lockdown.
The reopening of schools in January 2022 marked a significant milestone for Uganda after nearly two years of disruption caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. However, for many children in Wakiso District especially girls the return to school was far from guaranteed.
Recognizing this urgent challenge, Hon. Naluyima Ethel Betty, the Woman Member of Parliament for Wakiso District, spearheaded the launch of the “Naffe Tusome” campaign, a community-driven initiative aimed at ensuring that every child, regardless of circumstance, returns to school.
The campaign, whose name translates to “Let us also learn,” focuses particularly on girls who were disproportionately affected during the lockdown. Many faced challenges such as teenage pregnancy, early marriages, lack of school fees, and increased involvement in informal labor.
Speaking during the launch, Hon. Naluyima emphasized the importance of investing in education:
“Parents must understand that before reaping, they need to invest in their children. Education is the foundation for a better future.”
The campaign brings together a wide range of stakeholders, including parents, teachers, local leaders, civil society organizations, and development partners. Its primary goal is to rebuild a culture that values education and ensures that no child is left behind.
One of the most alarming realities highlighted during the launch was the sharp rise in teenage pregnancies in Wakiso District, with over 10,000 cases recorded during the lockdown period. This statistic underscores the need for targeted interventions to support young mothers and reintegrate them into the education system.
Through community sensitization meetings, radio talk shows, and school outreach programs, the “Naffe Tusome” campaign seeks to:
- Encourage parents to prioritize education.
- Provide support for vulnerable families.
- Reinstate confidence in the education system.
- Advocate for increased resource allocation to schools.
The campaign also serves as a reminder that education is a shared responsibility. By mobilizing the entire community, Hon. Naluyima aims to create a sustainable movement that not only returns children to school but also ensures they stay and succeed.
