Empowerment Through Education: The Inspiring Journey of Santina in Uganda

Santina, a 13-year-old girl residing in the Rhino Refugee Settlement in Uganda, has a journey filled with courage, resilience, and hope. Like many children in refugee camps, her life story revolves around survival and breaking through seemingly insurmountable challenges. Her narrative is not just one of hardship; it highlights a profound journey of empowerment through education.

Having fled with her mother, five sisters, and two brothers from the violence in South Sudan, Santina found herself in a challenging environment where the struggle for basic sustenance and stability is a daily reality. However, for Santina, the real battle began at the tender age of six when a severe health condition started to impact her physical and cognitive development. This condition presented numerous barriers to learning, especially in an environment where accessibility is often limited for individuals with disabilities.

Santina's mother vividly recalls the moment their lives changed forever. It began with a high fever that eventually led to paralysis on the left side of Santina’s body, significantly hindering her mobility. Her mother reminisced, "My daughter couldn’t even step out of the yard. Daily tasks like cooking or sweeping were impossible for her."

Despite these daunting challenges, Santina's determination to learn never wavered. She embarked on her educational journey four years ago at a primary school located about two kilometers from her home. Today, she continues to thrive in her studies, bolstered by the support of an innovative program established by Humanity Inclusion (HI), with funding from Education Cannot Wait (ECW) — a global fund promoting education in emergencies and protracted crises under the United Nations.

Thanks to an emergency response grant from Education Cannot Wait, HI provided critical support encompassing learning materials tailored to enhance Santina's educational experience. These included books, pens, puzzles, and games that have not only improved her learning experience but boosted her confidence significantly. "I love reading and writing, and I enjoy playing football with my friends, all of whom are girls,” Santina shared, expressing her joy. She adds, “I am happy because though my left hand was weak before, I can now use it better.”

Therapists at HI have worked closely with Santina, offering personalized support aimed at enhancing her daily living skills. Through their guidance, she has learned to dress independently and use the restroom on her own. Moreover, Santina has improved her fine motor skills by engaging in exercises that involve filling bottles with both hands. Activities like sketching in her drawing pad have further strengthened her upper limbs and hand-eye coordination. "I can move around school without any issues," Santina proudly states.

The teachers at Santina's school play an essential role in her development by accommodating her special needs and ensuring she is seated at the front of the class for easy visibility of the blackboard. They provide her with exercise books, learning materials, and tools like pencil holders and inclined boards.

Uganda is home to the largest population of refugees in sub-Saharan Africa, which puts a strain on the provision of basic services. The nation is also subject to climate-induced disasters such as flooding and landslides, which exacerbate the situation for refugees. Nevertheless, Santina remains resilient and has ambitious dreams for her future. "I want to continue my studies until university if possible. I aspire to be a pastor in my community," she declares.

Santina's story is a testament to the power of resilience, love, and the unwavering spirit every child deserves to thrive, regardless of the hurdles they face. Since 2017, Education Cannot Wait has collaborated with partners to enhance access to quality and inclusive education for vulnerable refugee children and adolescents, offering holistic interventions that include mental health support, psychosocial services, and promoting gender equality while safeguarding the needs of students, teachers, and caregivers.