Launch of Material Distribution to Simameni Project Schools in Western Region

Kyenjojo, 8th February 2025 – A significant milestone in the Simameni project was marked at Kyenjojo Secondary School as UNATU, in collaboration with the Canadian Teachers’ Federation (CTF), launched and distributed sewing machines and Talking compound slates to beneficiary schools in the Western Region. The event, attended by key education stakeholders in the area, highlighted the project’s ongoing commitment to improving education access, retention, and skills development.

The gathering brought together the District Education Officer (DEO) of Kyenjojo, UNATU leadership under the National Chairperson, the CTF Program Officer under Simameni project, Simameni project officer Western region, Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) and Board of Governors (BoG) representatives from the project schools, head teachers from the project schools, student leaders, and the General Secretary of UNATU.

Commitment to Education and Skills Development

The host headteacher of Kyenjojo SS welcomed all guests, expressing gratitude to the Simameni project for selecting their school to host such an impactful event.

The student leader from Kyabende SS echoed appreciation, acknowledging the project’s role in boosting confidence among girls and creating a supportive learning environment.

The PTA Chairperson of Kisaalizi Parents School recognized the Government of Canada for its unwavering support, emphasizing how Simameni has introduced skills-based learning that empowers girls and promotes student retention. He also highlighted the need for continued parental sensitization to ensure children remain in school.

Head teachers from various schools provided testimonials on the transformative impact of the project. The Head Teacher of Kasule SS reported an improvement in retention rates, citing that out of 54 students who finished UNEB, 25 were girls. She also acknowledged the financial support received from Simameni, particularly during the COVID-19 period, and praised initiatives such as talking compound slates, incinerators, changing rooms, and hands-on skills training.

The Chairperson of the BoG at Katooke SS expressed gratitude for the Simameni clubs and materials, attributing increased student enrolment and retention to the initiative.

A Call for Sustainability and Accountability

Regional Chairperson David Mugyenyi commended UNATU and CTF for their role in ensuring the project’s success. He urged schools to be accountable for the distributed materials and emphasized the need to support both boys and girls in education.

The CTF Program Officer reiterated the strong partnership between UNATU and CTF, celebrating the increased school enrolment under Simameni and the distribution of sewing machines to support the production of sanitary pads, a step towards addressing girls’ educational barriers. She also called for teachers to be role models in their schools and communities.

The National Chairperson of UNATU officially launched the distribution of materials, reaffirming UNATU’s commitment to education in Uganda and calling for accountability to sustain the project’s impact beyond its duration.

Similarly, the DEO of Kyenjojo acknowledged the project’s success in transforming implementing schools and urged students to serve as beacons of hope for their communities.

In his closing remarks, the General Secretary of UNATU thanked Global Affairs Canada, CTF, and all stakeholders for their support. He called on schools to maximize the opportunity provided through the Simameni project and encouraged continuous advocacy for both girls’ and boys’ education.

Empowering Schools for a Brighter Future

The event concluded with the distribution of sewing machines and talking compound slates to all 12 project schools in the Western Region. These materials are expected to enhance practical skills training, promote inclusivity, and improve the overall learning environment, ensuring that no student is left behind.