January 13th 2025 marked the first holiday program of the year at Angaza Resource Centre (ARC).
For over two and a half weeks,30 teenagers were equipped with ICT skills, literacy, and life skills, including financial literacy, mental wellness, communication, and social etiquette.
One of the program’s highlights was the return of Ronald Twikirize, founder of the Galui Foundation, whose expertise in chess mastery has been an integral part of our sessions.
Ronald’s work in using chess to foster critical thinking and create opportunities in underserved communities continues to inspire both participants and facilitators. Watching students both seasoned players and new learners strategize and sharpen their skills was a testament to the impact of this initiative.
Highlights from the participants
This year’s program brought together a mix of returning participants who have been with us since the program’s launch last year and first-time attendees eager to learn. This dynamic blend enriched the learning environment, fostering peer-to-peer learning.
Among the excited learners was Jeremiah, a Primary Seven pupil from St. Peter’s Primary School, Nsambya.
Jeremiah found great joy in playing chess and learning literacy and ICT. Under the guidance of Ali Katumba (our ICT Facilitator), he discovered a new passion, graphic design. “Making posters was my favourite part of ICT. Teacher Ali made it easier to learn,” he said.
Looking ahead, Jeremiah is already thinking of ways to apply his newfound skills. “I can get a computer and start making posters to earn money,” he added.
Emma, a student from Kakungulu Memorial School was encouraged by his mother and sister to join the program and quickly embraced the learning environment at ARC.He says he has met new friends and made a lot of progress in ICT
Emma also appreciates the Centre’s serene atmosphere and access to books. “What I love most about this place is its calm environment…” Grateful for the opportunity, he added, “I thank the people who put their efforts into building this place.”
Emma’s favourite activity was playing chess, and he now dreams of becoming a chess champion someday.
Another participant was Swaib Juma, also from Kakungulu Memorial School. He learned about ARC from a classmate and immediately recognised its value.
Before joining the program, Swaib had no prior knowledge of computers. “The program has enabled me to improve my reading and computer skills. I came with no skill about computers,” he noted.
Inspired by the confidence-building sessions attained from ARC, Swaib now aspires to vie for the position of head boy at his school.
For Shadia, a student from Janan Secondary School, her excitement was all about learning computer skills.
She picked up essential skills such as how to use a keypad and open windows.
However, her experience at ARC extended beyond ICT. “I got new friends, I have learned how to cooperate with others and work as a team. I used to be shy, but now I feel more confident,” she said.
As 40 Days Over 40 Smiles Foundation, seeing these teenagers grow in confidence and skill for over two and a half weeks was a privilege. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our supporters for making this journey possible.
More pictures from the program
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