We left early for Mukono Secondary school in Cyumba. This is a combination government/Byumba Anglican diosece church school. It is the highest performing school in the province and is known for its science and technology.
We were humbled: after being welcomed by the headmistress, Consolata Mukahakuzimana, and the traditional tea and “tribes” of Fanta sharing (any product made by Coca Cola is called Fanta) , they showed us around the school.
The teachers are doing a remarkable job: they have increased the student population from 126 in 2004 to 520 in 2011. Eighteen teachers teach under incredibly difficult circumstances: they have a very inadequate library; the computer lab has only 10 computers; and a there’s a huge lack of text books. As well, the teachers acknowledged that the recent mandate by the government that all teaching must be done in English has overwhelmed them. Two Dormitories house more than 200 students each. Toilets are outside, yet the students are eager to learn, proud of their school and willing to each walk four miles per day after school to collect water for the daily needs of the entire school. There are also no sport facilities. The entire school assembled to welcome us; the student president brought a beautiful message of hope.
Gerrit has already started making inquiries on how to assist with the severe water problem. The need is enormous..
This school is the “star” school. Imagine how the “lacking” schools are doing!
I was reflecting this morning as my grandsons are with us and we were able to take four showers, run the dishwasher, the washing machine,and the sprinkler system The boys can run thru the sprinkler and have water fights. I was thinking of those people who don’t have access to clean water, and then I read about these students who walk four miles a day to get water. It breaks my heart to see the disparity.
thank you 4 giving us a little bit on MUKONO SECONDARY SCHOOL,i am the one who had fetched knowledge the for the first promotion i would like to retalate you that the first person who had led this school, was Bakundukize Innocent