Over 25 teachers receive phonics training at the Angaza Resource Centre

As part of its commitment to improving the quality of education in underserved communities, 4040 recently hosted a three-day phonics training at the Angaza Resource Centre (ARC). The training brought together over 25 teachers from two of our four partner schools, Vallerian Primary School and Hope Shammah’s Junior School, for an immersive, hands-on experience in effective literacy instruction. It introduced foundational sounds (Set 1 and Set 2) and practical strategies to integrate phonics into classrooms effectively.

For many of the participating educators, this was their first exposure to phonics training, and the enthusiasm was palpable. The sessions were expertly facilitated by Read for Life, whose engaging and research-based approach equipped teachers with practical strategies to support their learners in reading, pronunciation, and comprehension.

For Mary, a teacher at Vallerian Primary School, the training couldn’t have come at a better time. She shared that many children in her class struggle with interpreting questions and understanding vocabulary, a challenge she now feels more prepared to tackle.

“The fun of phonics is going to help me in teaching word comprehension, recognition, and processing while I deliver sessions to my learners,” –  Mary, Vallerian Primary School. 

At Hope Shammah’s Junior School, Hadija reflected on the value of the training and its timeliness.

“This training will be useful in diversifying my teaching methods. My learners will be helped better. We thank 4040 for impacting our lives,” Hadija, Hope Shammah’s Junior School

The phonics training is part of 4040’s broader mission to strengthen literacy foundations in the communities we serve by building the capacity of educators. Beyond improving reading outcomes, such training also addresses systemic gaps, particularly the lack of access to innovative, evidence-based teaching methodologies in many teacher-training institutions.

By extending professional development opportunities to educators, the Foundation aims to foster classrooms where learning is engaging, inclusive, and effective. We believe that investing in teachers is one of the most powerful ways to uplift children’s educational journeys, especially in under-resourced schools where learning challenges are most acute.

In addition to training, 4040 continues to provide computers, books, and teaching resources to its partner schools as part of its ongoing effort to bridge educational resource gaps in Uganda.

Gratitude and Future Prospects
We remain deeply grateful to all our supporters, partners, and participants who contribute to the success of the ARC. From the children and teachers who pour their hearts into learning to the organizations and individuals who invest in our vision, each plays a vital role in our journey.
As we reflect on these recent milestones, we are more committed than ever to expanding our reach, enriching our programs, and fostering a community that thrives through education.