Lira, Uganda — St. Mary Goretti Secondary School, located in Ngetta, Lira City East Division, stands out as the only school in Lango Sub Region offering education to visually impaired students.
Established in 2023 through a partnership between Lira Diocese and the Itinga Education Charity Foundation (ICEF), the school recently received a significant boost from the MTN Uganda Foundation under its Inclusive Education Project: MTN Change Maker Grant.
During a handover ceremony graced by the Resident City Commissioner, Mr. Lawrence Egole, MTN Uganda provided the school with computers equipped with JAWS assistive software, workstations, and 40 desks—a donation worth UGX 20 million aimed at improving learning conditions for students with visual impairments.
Mr. Luke Etuk, the Head Teacher, expressed deep gratitude, noting that although the school began last year with just 15 students and 15 teachers, it has grown to accommodate 45 learners, including 10 who are blind and 12 with partial sight.
He emphasized the school’s mission to provide equal opportunities for all learners, especially those often marginalized due to physical or non-physical challenges.
Acen Kevin Daniella, ICEF’s Executive Director, lauded the support from MTN Uganda, underscoring how it aligns with their goal of creating a more inclusive educational environment.
She acknowledged the grant as a turning point for education in Lango, particularly for visually impaired learners.
Speaking at the event, Mr. Brian Kagwisagye, MTN’s Regional Business Manager for Northern Uganda, reaffirmed MTN’s commitment to inclusive and accessible education, in line with their Ambition 2025 strategy and the UN SDGs on quality education and reducing inequality.
While celebrating the milestone, speakers including Councilor Matthew Omara (PWDs Representative) and Fr. Constance Opio (Board Chairperson), called on the Ministry of Education and the government to officially recognize the school as a specialized institution for visually impaired learners. They also urged local and international stakeholders to continue supporting inclusive education efforts.
Despite the significant strides made, the school still faces challenges such as shortages in braille paper, orbit readers, printers, photocopiers, and access to clean water. Calls were made for continued support to meet these pressing needs.
St. Mary Goretti SS, now catering to Senior One and Two, envisions a future where all learners, regardless of ability, can thrive equally in education and beyond.
Original Story……. Lira Diocese News Agency……………
