St. Peter's Primary School needs new Classrooms

THE URGENT NEED IS REAL

Today, at St. Peter's Primary School in Uganda, 334 students attend classes held in 6 existing (and very overcrowded) classrooms and 1 shared open space in a nearby church. Many of the lower grade students do not have proper desks. They must crouch down on the dirt floor and use a classroom bench as a writing surface. The school receives no government funding. Nor are they affiliated with any church. Almost all of the students come from families struggling with poverty and a myriad of other post-Covid related challenges. Despite these difficulties, students, their parents and teachers are all united in their desire to seek improvement in their lives through the pursuit of an education. ALL FUNDS raised here will go to support the urgent construction of additional new classrooms at St. Peter's Primary School.

THE SETTING

Down a twisting dirt road in south western Uganda, on the shores of stunning Lake Mutanda, lies a small rural school. St. Peter’s Primary School is a humble and hope-filled place that is quietly accomplishing the very important work of educating young people. Anyone who visits this school can’t help but be moved by the youthful energy and optimism that radiates from both students and staff. Despite the obvious lack of resources, there are no complaints or excuses.

THEIR RECORD OF SUCCESS

St. Peter's Primary School is a place of modest means and big dreams. Last year, 100% of their senior students passed the national Primary Leaving Exam. In a country like Uganda, early success in education can truly change a child's future. Education at St. Peter’s Primary School is helping its young students escape poverty and become contributing members and role models for subsequent generations.

MOVING FORWARD

Because of its undeniable success, the school's enrolment has dramatically increased this year from just 260 at the start to 334 students today. Existing classrooms are very crowded and teachers sometimes struggle to meet the needs of all their students. ALL FUNDS raised here will go to support the urgent need for more classroom spaces with proper desks (instead of benches) as well as the hiring of additional teaching and support staff.

Currently, three different classes share this same open space. There are no walls or doors between them. Imagine trying to teach in such a noisy setting. Imagine trying to learn with so many distractions. Note how benches are being used as desks.

MY CONNECTION

I visited this school in September 2022 as a tourist. It is a place of much easy laughter and genuine curiosity. I have maintained an ongoing connection to St. Peter's because I believe their story and mission deserves to be shared with a much wider audience who may wish to support the school's important work with their donations.

WANT TO KNOW MORE?

For more information on the school and lots of photographs showing daily life there, please visit the school's website.

https://www.stpetersprimary.school

Thank you for your kind and generous support!