The Hope Institute, Kampala, Uganda
Virginia Allport and Glen Williams
The Hope Institute was founded in 1992 by a charismatic Ugandan priest, Gideon Byamugisha. The Institute trains young women and men from low-income families in skills that will enable them to become economically self-sufficient.
Female students of the Institute outnumber males by about two to one. Graduates now support themselves as chefs, clothing designers, electricians, motor mechanics, and hair stylists. The Institute also educates its students in safe, responsible sexual behaviour. One female student of electrical installation topped her year in national exams, despite having recently been orphaned.
No students have yet tested positive for COVID-19. However, the staff and the students have all been severely affected by the pandemic. Since March 2020, the Institute – along with all other training institutions in Uganda – had to stop teaching activities for a total of 13 months. This severely affected the number of students able to sit for their final exams. It also impacted negatively on re-enrolments after extended lock-downs, since many parents were unable to pay the Institute’s fees. Nevertheless, teaching resumed on 1 November last year.
With student re-enrolments still at a low level, however, the Institute’s financial position is now extremely precarious. Funds are urgently needed to cover running costs, especially staff salaries, training materials, and meals for students.
G and A Williams Partners,
a/c 50323628,
Sort Code 607003,
Natwest Bank.
Alternatively, please send a cheque to:
G and A Williams Partners,
93 Divinity Road,
Oxford OX4 1LN.
Your donation will be acknowledged, and no charges will be made to cover administrative costs. You will also receive a report on the work of the Hope Institute.
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Forty-Three Newsletter • Number 514 • February 2022
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