In a bid to improve the students’ learning environment and performance, URDT has expanded learning space for her schools, with the primary section studying from Kanywamiyaga, in Kagadi district, and the secondary section in Nkondo-Kakumiro district. This came with renovations and construction of more structures at the schools including dormitories, micro flash toilets, bathrooms, as well as a modern fish pond and pigsty to expand the school’s nutritional based farming for physical and mental health as well as improved academic performance.
According to Tusiime Leticia, a primary six pupil at URDT Girls’ primary school, her concentration and performance in class have improved due to uninterrupted class time and constantly available teachers for consultation at all times. Tusiime also appreciates the skills got from the school projects like poultry keeping that have helped her and her family raise more income from her back home projects.
Students at the URDT Girls School Nkondo in Kakumiro district are also actively participating in innovative piggery and fish farming projects as well as vegetable growing, which are a supplement source of nutrition for learners and teachers. The projects that are situated on the school premises offer students with a unique opportunity to engage in sustainable agricultural practices. Learners are taught essential skills such as animal husbandry, aquaculture, feeding techniques, breeding, health management, and the economic aspects of running small-scale farms.
According to the secondary school head teacher Ms. Christine Nyakaisiki, the projects are an important part of URDT’s educational philosophy, which emphasizes self-reliance and practical skills development. “We believe that education should go beyond the classroom,” she said. “By engaging in this piggery and fish farming, our students not only learn how to care for animals but also acquire entrepreneurial skills that will be invaluable for home transformation.”
Joan Ninsiima, a Senior Three student involved in both projects, shared her passion for the experience. “I have learned so much about responsibility and the importance of proper animal and fish care,” she said. “I am excited to take this knowledge back home and enable my family improve our farming practices.”
Through the implementation of the said projects, girls were able to acquire skills in building and construction as a result of participation in the whole process that involved leveling of the ground, digging holes, fixing timber, brick laying and plastering. The skills gained will enable them to implement various projects at home and community using locally available materials which are affordable. By empowering students with these valuable skills, URDT Girls School is fostering a new generation of self-reliant and resourceful individuals who are change agents and change makers.
