Yalelo is tackling urgent educational challenges in the communities of Butembe, Kalega, and Buwagajjo, which are home to over 1,020 primary school children. This number is expected to increase to 1,200 by the end of 2024 due to a significant lack of classroom infrastructure.
Despite the dedication of parents and teachers, four community-based schools—Hands of Love Junior School, Butembe Faith Academy, Butembe Community Development Centre, and Prophet Obadiah Orthodox Primary School—are critically short on desks. Of the 298 desks available, only 183 are single-seater desks, accommodating just 221 students. This leaves 78.3% of learners without adequate seating or writing facilities, far below Uganda’s Basic Requirements and Minimum Standards for Education Institutions (2009).
The shortage of desks has serious consequences. Many children are forced to sit on the floor or share limited space, hindering their ability to concentrate and engage fully in their studies. As a result, school attendance has declined, with some children choosing to stay home to avoid overcrowded classrooms. Teachers also struggle to manage large class sizes and complete assessments efficiently.
In response, Yalelo has provided essential educational equipment to enhance learning conditions for these students. This initiative aims to create a more comfortable and conducive learning environment, fostering a love for education in the community. Additionally, it will empower teachers to perform their duties more effectively, ensuring every child has the opportunity to succeed.
At the handover ceremony at Yalelo’s Head Office in Butembe, CEO Eric de Vaan highlighted the company’s commitment to education as a foundation for community development. He remarked, “It’s a joyful day that this handover ceremony coincides with Yalelo’s 5th anniversary, allowing us to celebrate with the community. Our commitment is to strengthen our relationship with the community beyond these five years. We are here to celebrate the true stars of the show— the children.
“To the students: the furniture may shine now, but it will fade over time; however, the knowledge you gain will last. Overall, education offers the highest return on investment.”
