Journey to University: Sandra

My name is Namulondo Sandrah Edith. I have been an Action in Africa Secondary School scholarship student since my senior one year in 2016. I am excited that I will now be studying for a university degree in Human Resource Management at Makerere School of Business Studies in the Action in Africa University Scholarship program.

It is really a great pleasure for me to have a chance to be part of the Action in Africa organization. It is not only an organization, but a second home to me. Action In Africa enables children to develop their talents and gain more skills while at The Centre through different programs like debates, spelling bees, lessons, sports, Zumba, yoga, dance, music, project development, market surveys, community mapping, and leadership programs among others. Through the debate programs, I was able to improve my confidence and leadership skills and became a campus leader at my secondary school.

The internship program has been so impactful to me and to my colleagues and those who participated before us. I have built my computer skills, been exposed to  counselling and guidance sessions, and received career advice. The staff at the Centre is so approachable and have really made my life enjoyable.

At The Centre, there is a primary partnership program, in which primary pupils from different schools come and participate in academic programs like debate, spelling, and learning facilitation. There is also an after school program where pupils come as they are being dismissed from their respective schools. Helping with these programs taught me how to manage classrooms and the homework sessions where we tutor pupils has made me a better learner because the more you help someone with a task the more you learn.

The holidays between my ordinary school were times where I gained the most skills.  I embraced the opportunities to participate in the holiday programs at The Centre.

Different teachers from different schools would come and guide us through new subjects, most especially science. Perhaps that is one of the reasons why I was able to pass the science subjects at my ordinary level despite how tough they are.  

We always know what to expect from The Centre. Medical outreach programs are always organized for people in Nakuwadde and the surrounding areas to have regular medical check-ups. It helps everyone to know their important health standards, especially concerning HIV status.

I’m really grateful for Action in Africa. Sometimes when I think about the generosity of the staff members of Action in Africa, I cry tears of joy.