Encouraging Young Readers In Arua, Uganda
Joy Early Learning Nursery and Primary School is a private school located in Arua district in northwestern Uganda, near the borders of the Democratic Republic of Congo and South Sudan. It has about 130 young, lively, engaged, and well-mannered students. The school hosts three terms per year, which cost the students 200,000 Ugandan shillings, equal to about 55 U.S. dollars.
Learning In Action At Joy Early Learning Nursery And Primary School
Joy Early Learning Nursery and Primary School received books from African Library Project in 2020. They’ve since put the books to good use, but expressed an eagerness to improve the state of their library, dreaming of the day when they can have a separate library building. Despite the lack of library space, the teachers take advantage of the space they do have. Each classroom is decorated with colorful, educational posters, and filled with children who are excited to learn and improve.
According to the school, many students from the refugee communities are highly motivated to do well in school, as they see it as an opportunity to have a better future. School fees are waived for the top students each term; however, if a student can’t pay their fees, they are not allowed entry to campus.
We were excited to see the impact that African Library Project had on Joy Early Learning Nursery and Primary School. While there, we were able to provide new big books. Big books are created specifically for reading aloud to classrooms, so every child can see the illustrations.
You Can Promote Literacy
Let us know if you’re interested in helping students at schools like Joy Early Learning Nursery and Primary School. Visit our Volunteer page for more information.
Library visit date: June 12, 2023
About This Case Study Series
Welcome to our Ugandan Case Study Series featuring 10 libraries recently visited by ALP Founder Chris Bradshaw and ALP Container Manager Tracy Gaestel. Chris and Tracy traveled to Uganda to meet with our partners at enjuba and First Foundation Education Trust. Enjoy this deeper dive into some of our Ugandan libraries.