Santina's Resilient Journey in Pursuit of Education
An Education Cannot Wait-funded programme is empowering refugee children with disabilities to access inclusive and quality education. This initiative is particularly significant for young Santina, whose story highlights strength in the face of adversity.
A New Refuge
Thirteen-year-old Santina fled violence in her home country with her mother and siblings. They found safety in a refugee settlement, but life there is fraught with challenges. At just six years old, Santina began battling a severe health condition that has made education more difficult. The settlement’s physical environment presented major obstacles, hindering her access to learning as a child with disabilities.
Overcoming Health Challenges
Santina's mother remembers the moment that changed everything. A high fever led to paralysis on one side of Santina's body, causing significant mobility challenges. Her mother recalls with sadness how, "My daughter could not move outside of the yard on her own. She could not even help with daily chores like cooking or sweeping the floor," illustrating the tremendous impact this condition had on their daily lives.
Support for Learning
Despite these hurdles, Santina's spirit remained undeterred. For the past four years, she has attended a primary school located 2 kilometers from her home. Thanks to the innovative support provided by Humanity & Inclusion, along with funding from Education Cannot Wait, Santina has made remarkable progress in her educational journey. This collaboration offers critical resources, enabling her to blossom in a supportive learning environment.
The programme provided her with essential materials such as books, pens, and engaging games that not only enhance her academic experience but also help build confidence. "I like writing and reading the most. I also like to play football with my friends, and my friends at school are all girls," Santina expresses joyfully. She even states, "I am happy because my left hand was weak, but now I can use it," highlighting her incredible resilience and growth.
Personalized Therapies
Collaboration with occupational therapists and physiotherapists has played a vital role in Santina's development. They provided tailored support to refine her daily skills, teaching her to dress independently and enhancing her fine motor skills through playful activities, like scribbling with crayons. "I can go anywhere in the school without any problems," Santina proudly shares, a testament to the incredible progress she has made.
A Nurturing School Environment
The teachers are equally dedicated, ensuring Santina’s needs are met in the classroom. They take special care of her seating arrangement so that she can clearly see the blackboard, and they have provided her with helpful tools like pencil grips and a slant board to aid her learning.
A Vision for the Future
Santina dreams big despite the numerous obstacles in her path. "I want to continue my education up to university level if I can. I want to be a pastor in my community," she shares, illustrating her aspirations for the future.
The Broader Context
Uganda accommodates the largest refugee population in sub-Saharan Africa, which creates immense pressure on essential services. Despite adversities like climate-induced disasters, Santina’s journey serves as an encouraging reminder that resilience, compassion, and education can make a transformative difference in the lives of vulnerable children.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Santina's background?
Santina is a thirteen-year-old girl from a family that fled violence in South Sudan and is now living in a refugee settlement in Uganda.
How has Santina's health impacted her education?
Santina has faced significant mobility challenges due to a severe health condition that affects her education and daily life.
What support has Santina received?
She has received support from Humanity & Inclusion and Education Cannot Wait, which provided essential learning materials and resources.
What are Santina's aspirations?
Santina aspires to continue her education through university and aims to become a pastor in her community.
How is the education system in Uganda supporting refugees?
Uganda’s education system aims to provide inclusive education, though it faces challenges due to the large refugee population and resource constraints.
