CHAIN Foundation
MUKUNO, UGANDA
Martin Nkoyoyo Primary School
Education
The Martin Nkoyoyo Inclusive School at the CHAIN Foundation is Uganda’s first institution designed to integrate visually impaired and sighted children. Serving both children from the CHAIN orphanage and those from nearby communities, the school has 423 pupils and 16 teachers as of 2024. The kindergarten specifically comprises three classes: Baby, Middle, and Top, staffed by six teachers, two for each class, and one support staff. As is typical at this age, children are curious and often pose numerous questions, keeping teachers actively engaged.
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In 2006, the CHAIN Foundation initiated a program specifically aimed at assisting visually impaired children, including those who are blind or have low vision. Uganda is home to an estimated 400,000 children with blindness or other vision impairments, the majority of which stem from preventable diseases. These children often face stigma, isolation, and are frequently perceived as burdens on their families. Tragically, nearly 80% of them are denied access to education. Currently, 41 visually impaired children are enrolled among the 423 students at Nkoyoyo.
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The CHAIN Foundation’s specialized education program provides an inclusive learning environment, enabling visually impaired children to interact with their sighted peers. In addition to the standard curriculum, these students receive training in Braille, musical instruments, and job skills, empowering them to lead more independent and fulfilling lives.
This is the building where the baby, middle, and top kindergarten classes reside.
National Primary Leaving Exams (PLEs)
The Martin Nkoyoyo Inclusive School has 57 candidates in Primary Seven, with teachers diligently preparing them for the National Primary Leaving Examinations (PLE) scheduled for November. Teachers are committed to completing the school syllabus promptly, ensuring students have ample time to revise and prepare for the final exams. Additionally, learners participated in District Mock Exams from August 7th to 9th as part of their preparation for the national exams.
Some of the visually impaired students work rigorously on completing their national PLEs.
Music, Dance, and Drama
This term, Music, Dance, and Drama competitions took place, with children competing in various houses such as Rhino, Lion, and Cheetah. The Cheetah house emerged victorious, receiving a trophy for their achievements. Students from all classes, ranging from Primary One to Primary Seven, participated in this exciting competition.
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Election of Student Leaders
The school recently held elections for new prefects and leaders, which involved both nominations and campaigns. Students actively moved between classes during lunchtime and after school to seek votes from their peers.
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School Devotions
Devotions are held every Thursday at 12 PM in the school dining hall, led by the CHAIN chaplain. Students eagerly anticipate this time of prayer, which encourages them to place their trust in God, engage in prayer, and love one another. Occasionally, students lead devotions under the chaplain’s guidance.
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Extra-Curricular Activities
The school timetable allows for various extra-curricular activities, particularly after classes, involving both sighted and visually impaired children. These activities include skipping rope, playing games, singing, and more.
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Counselling
Recognizing the need for support among vulnerable children and youths, the CHAIN Foundation established a Counselling Department. School leaders encourage students to seek individual counseling if necessary, while some teachers refer challenging cases to the counselor for further assistance.
Some of the students playing during a break from class.
One of the primary school classrooms busy ;earning.