Refugee women fostering “education pods” during school closures

South Sudanese women have historically been denied the opportunity to be educated, even in the best of times in their own country.  With all the additional challenges in their lives as refugees in Uganda, unable to communicate in English in a country where English is nearly the only language spoken, they have even less opportunity go to school.

This fact makes it even more amazing that the women in Mungula and Olua settlements are the leaders in finding alternative ways for their children to continue their education in spite of the schools being closed due to COVID-19 restrictions.  They are now organizing “education pods” throughout both settlements.  Children from early elementary through 12 years old are meeting in groups of 4 to 5 with a high school student who acts as their teacher/mentor.  Other older students also help out by tutoring those who struggle.  Meanwhile, the women ensure the children show up each day and are fed a meal.  They also ensure that discipline is maintained.  The women involved in the education pods are extremely enthusiastic and are eager to get more pods set up.

The experience indicates that these women who have been denied education for themselves nevertheless place high value on education and will work to see that their children receive the opportunities that were denied to them.