Reflecting on the chronology of past events in her life, Rehema, 21, a student in our Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) scholarship program has all the reasons to be happy.
Rehema lost her parents at an earlier stage in her life. Together with her five siblings, they found it hard to cope with life especially getting their basic needs and school requirements. Their parents’ death cast a shadow of doubt on the plans they had for their lives.
Luckily, their aunt Jane came to their aid and took them in but the situation did not get any better since Jane had no formal job and the family had become big for her to provide for all their basic needs.
School life was filled with lots of challenges as many times, Rehema was sent home for school fees and other school requirements, which affected her academic performance.
“It was very challenging. We were often sent home for school fees. We became a laughingstock to other pupils. At home, we slept on empty stomachs [at times]. The thought of dropping out of school crossed my mind several times. I whispered a word to God to deliver us from that situation,” she narrates.
Rehema’s prayers were answered as UKR came to their rescue and enrolled the family into Family Care program. UKR supported Rehema’s family with school fees and other school requirements. Finally, Rehema could see light at the end of the tunnel.
Rehema and her siblings were able to attend their basic education without interference making them improve their academic performance. Upon sitting for her high school entry exams, KCPE, Rehema secured a chance to join high school.
UKR through its high school scholarship program supported Rehema’s high school throughout the four years with school fees, stationery, and pocket money among other school requirements that would enable her to go about her academics with ease.
“I didn’t believe that at some point I would be privileged to join high school like other children who came from well-up families. When I received the admission letter I was so overjoyed that my dreams would come to pass.
“My high school life was smooth; I was never sent home for school fees. UKR provided everything that I needed. I am so grateful for that golden opportunity UKR gave me,” said Rehema.
Rehema’s longtime dream of becoming a fashion designer was now taking shape. After completing her high school exit exams, KCSE, she enrolled for an Artisan course in Fashion and Design at Bushiangala Technical Training Institution thanks to our TVET program.
UKR supported her with school fees among other requirements that would facilitate smooth learning at the institution.
“I will forever be indebted to UKR for the continued support they accorded me since primary school. I can’t visualize how my life would have been if it was not for the sponsorship I have received from UKR,” noted Rehema.
The first year of college for Rehema has been a successful one, making new friends from around the country and experiencing a new and different taste of life away from home have been some of the highlights of her college life.
When she completes her college education, Rehema plans on opening a successful tailoring business that will earn her some cash. She plans on helping her family and the less privileged in the community. She also plans to create job opportunities for other fashion designers by incorporating them upon establishing a tailoring business.
During her free time, Rehema likes playing volleyball and listening to music. She is an ardent lover of gospel music which uplifts her spiritually. She is also in the college Christian Union group serving as an usher.
Through our TVET programs, we have continued to give students like Rehema a chance to further their academic ambitions by joining technical institutions where they can learn handy skills and be self-employed.
The program has enabled over 100 students in our program to get skills and knowledge that will quickly propel them into the business market place or job market. The goal is for them to be self-reliant and to be able to provide for their needs and that of their families.
We appreciate all the stakeholders, sponsors, and well-wishers who have supported and continue to support this program financially. Your support is of immense contribution towards keeping the dreams of many students in our program alive.
