Introduction – Support to Exodus Josh Primary School, Wakiso District
Since 2019, Kachance Kids Uganda has been working in communities across Wakiso District, uplifting vulnerable children through education, welfare, and empowerment programs. During one of our community outreach visits, our team discovered Exodus Josh Primary School, a small rural school where hundreds of children from impoverished families struggle daily for something many take for granted education.
What we saw was both heartbreaking and inspiring. The children, full of dreams and determination, studied in half built classrooms, barefoot and hungry, with very limited access to basic learning materials. Their eyes told stories of silent suffering but also of unshakable hope and resilience. They wanted to learn, to grow, and to change their lives for the better.
Background
Most of the children at Exodus Josh Primary School come from families living in extreme poverty. Parents are mainly small scale farmers, casual laborers, and single mothers who often struggle to provide even one meal a day. For many, purchasing a school uniform, a book, or a pencil is an unaffordable luxury.
Our team met young boys and girls walking long distances to school under the scorching sun, some with torn clothes or without shoes. Despite their hardships, they remained cheerful and eager to learn. On the day of our visit, Kachance Kids provided food, scholastic materials, sanitary pads, and clothing, bringing comfort and renewed hope to the children and staff.
School Renovation Initiative
Recognizing the urgent need for a better learning environment, Kachance Kids Uganda donated funds in October 2022 to renovate the school’s facilities. The renovation aimed to create safer and more dignified classrooms, enabling effective learning and teaching.
The project included: Refurbishment of classroom walls and roofs, Provision of desks and furniture, minor repairs to sanitation facilities, Painting and improvement of the school compound. This investment has transformed Exodus Josh Primary into a more welcoming space for both learners and teachers.
Current Impact and Achievements
Before Kachance Kids’ intervention, the school had 80 pupils and 4 teachers. Since October 2024, enrollment has grown to 223 pupils 92 boys and 131 girls supported by 9 teachers and 1 cook. This remarkable growth reflects the community’s renewed confidence in the school and the improved quality of education.
Support for Vulnerable Children
Out of the 223 pupils, 70 children live at the school because they were abandoned, orphaned, or victims of abuse. Kachance Kids helped construct temporary accommodation for them however, there remains an urgent shortage of beds, beddings, and blankets due to the rising number of children in need.
Feeding and Nutrition
The school faces feeding challenges but has made progress by cultivating crops during holidays to supplement meals. This initiative reduces hunger among pupils and promotes sustainabilitye.
Skills Development Programs
To empower learners beyond academics, the school introduced holiday skilling clubs in: Computer literacy, Metal fabrication, Tailoring, Bakery Currently, the equipment used is hired, but these programs have helped children gain practical skills that can support them in the future, especially those who may not continue to secondary education.
Education Continuity Support
In 2024, six pupils sat for their Primary Leaving Examinations (PLE) and performed excellently. Unfortunately, only two were able to continue to secondary school due to financial constraints. The school, with Kachance Kids’ support, has taken responsibility for the remaining four learners, ensuring they continue their education while staying under the school’s care.
Message from the Headteacher – Nakitende Lydia
“On behalf of Exodus Josh Primary School, I extend our heartfelt gratitude to the entire Kachance Kids Uganda fraternity. We pray that God continues to bless the work of your hands. Your generosity has brought hope and transformation to our children and our community. The scholastic materials, clothing, and renovation support have changed our lives. Since you joined hands with us, many underprivileged children have benefited, and the learning environment has greatly improved.”
Future Needs and Call for Support
While progress has been made, the school continues to face several challenges that require urgent attention: Additional scholastic materials (books, pens, uniforms) Feeding support for the resident children, Computers, sewing machines, and bakery equipment for vocational clubs, Beds, bedsheets, and blankets for the boarding section. Kachance Kids Uganda remains committed to partnering with Exodus Josh Primary School and other community schools to ensure every child has access to quality education, safety, and hope for a brighter future.
Conclusion
The transformation at Exodus Josh Primary School demonstrates the power of compassion, partnership, and persistence. Together, with continued donor support, we can reach even more children, restore dignity to vulnerable families, and build sustainable pathways out of poverty. Kachance Kids Uganda expresses deep gratitude to all supporters whose generosity has made this journey possible.