Journey to University: Sherinah
The field of Information Technology is growing rapidly and becoming more widely embraced. However, Uganda still faces challenges such as poor infrastructure and limited internet access. Despite these obstacles, Ugandans remain determined to pursue ICT skills, recognizing the necessity of digital advancement in today’s world.
On that note, we had a one-on-one discussion with our graduate, Sherinah Nakalanzi, who recently earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Information Technology through an AIA university scholarship at St. Lawrence University. She is also the first female graduate in this field at Action in Africa (AIA). Join us as we dive deeper into her personal journey and aspirations in the IT sector.
I’m 23 years old. I’m still a young girl! I joined in 2018 after facing a difficult setback in my life. Before AIA, my academic journey was extremely challenging. I was raised by a single mother who worked as a cleaner, and her salary couldn’t cover both our education and basic needs. I was constantly sent home from school due to unpaid fees. My father abandoned us because of family conflicts. However, we later reunited, and I’m happy to share that he actually helped me secure my current job at the Supreme Court of Uganda, where I work as an Office Attendant.
Despite my father’s absence, my mother stood strong during difficult times. She had no choice but to enroll us in cheaper schools in remote areas like Nakifuma District, where poor infrastructure, unqualified teachers, and low academic performance were common. This affected my studies greatly.
After completing Senior Four, I was forced to stay home for over a year due to a lack of funds. During that time, I considered working in restaurants, supermarkets, and cleaning jobs—just like my mother—to help with family expenses. If that wasn’t an option, marriage seemed like the only alternative, just as my sister had chosen. I felt like no one could rescue us from this harsh reality.
Whenever I was alone, I would cry, realizing that my dreams and ambitions were slipping away at such a young age. Even getting a daily meal was a struggle. My elder sister had started university, but due to financial struggles, she was forced to drop out and get married at an early age as a survival strategy.
Harriet Babirye, Center Attendant and community mentor
One of our neighbors, Mama Harriet, was a staff member at AIA. She always talked about AIA’s impact in Nakuwadde, mentioning programs like Scholarships, Women to Women, and ICT. She also often joked about the ABAZUNGU (white foreigners) at AIA, describing them as friendly.
At first, I didn’t pay much attention since it seemed like an adult conversation. However, my mother and Mama Harriet took it seriously and introduced me to AIA’s holiday program. It was a decision that changed my life.
Mama Harriet shared my story with the administrators, and to my surprise, I was welcomed with open arms. At first, I thought I had come to work since I had been out of school for so long. But later, I was oriented about AIA’s programs and my responsibilities as an intern.
On my first day with AIA, like anyone in a new environment, I was nervous. But the warm hospitality I received made me feel like part of a family. I remember seeing kids playing in the compound, others drinking porridge, laughing, and shouting. And no one was silencing them. It showed me that AIA was a place of freedom and joy.
With time, I was awarded a Secondary Scholarship and resumed my studies at Central College Secondary School, receiving all the necessary materials and school fees. I never imagined I would see the inside of a classroom again, because I knew my family’s financial situation better than anyone.
If putting food on the table was a challenge, how could my mother afford school fees? I had already made up my mind to work instead of studying, but AIA changed everything. They revived my dreams and gave me hope.
Honestly, before AIA, I had no idea what my future would look like. But after joining AIA, I was introduced to Information and Communications Technology, and I was inspired by an amazing ICT teacher at the center. I loved the subject and wanted to learn more about technology, especially since we live in a digital world. AIA had many computers for practice, which helped me build my skills at zero cost.
Sherinah Nakalanzi on graduation day with her mother
By the time I joined university, I already had basic ICT knowledge, unlike many of my peers who had never used computers before. Now, I am a graduate with a job at the Supreme Court of Uganda. Who am I today? It’s all because of AIA! In the future, I see myself in a senior IT position, furthering my education if given the opportunity, and helping vulnerable people.
My favorite programs at The Center include serving porridge to the kids and the incredible activities like art and ICT classes. But most importantly, the sense of family—AIA is still my home. Whenever I have free time, I’m always welcome to volunteer. I truly miss The Center!
I can never repay Aunt Sarah for her kindness and generosity. I only pray that she lives a long and fulfilling life so that future generations can also experience her love and heroism. She is truly a superwoman—her heart is as pure and kind as my mother’s. To the AIA donors, we can never fully compensate for your generosity, only God knows how to reward you. Please continue supporting Aunt Sarah’s dream of transforming lives in Uganda.
Through your donations, we receive quality education, better healthcare, community development, and women empowerment, helping break the cycle of poverty in our communities.
