An extraordinary day was held at Suubi on January 30th when five of the university students, who have been volunteering at the centre over the last 12 months, held their graduation ceremony.
Although the students had studied in Kampala (Uganda's capital) they had travelled many times throughout the year to the tiny rural village of Lubanda, where Suubi is situated. During their time at the centre they passed on many of the skills they had learnt at uni. At the same time they built up a wonderful relationship with the Suubi Ladies Group, many schools in the area, the youth; in-fact the wider community as a whole.
When the students recently graduated from their courses the Suubi community wanted to show their appreciation for everything they had done for them. It was suggested that a graduation ceremony and party could be held at the centre. So although 'a celebration' does not fit the criteria of where HUG would ordinarily allocate money, we were fortunate to have an offer from one of HUGs supporters to specifically donate the small amount of money required to run the event. To witness five extraordinary young Ugandans graduating is something very rarely seen outside the urban areas of Uganda. The generous donor saw the enormous merit in exposing village children and parents to the successful uni students and such an important event.
The day proved to be a tremendous success with close to five hundred people attending. Suubi was abuzz with excitement and as the many village people watched the graduation ceremony of five people, who had become their friends and role models, they themselves realised 'what is possible'.
Graduating from University is a great milestone. Lebega David, Kukwaama Keneth, Saidah, Karugaba Joseph and Kawere Joseph (L to R) were the toast of the village.
With the formalities over everyone celebrated in true African style with lots of singing and dancing.
Some of the small village children performed a tribute song for the uni graduates.
The Suubi Ladies Group, who have learnt many skills from the uni students over the past 12 months, were also keen to show their appreciation by performing special dances.
Lunch was provided, from the new Suubi kitchen, for the many excited villagers who attended the graduation ceremony.
The Suubi Ladies were honoured to have their photos taken with the graduating uni students.
Nakafeero Sarah was thrilled when Kawere Josheph offered to let her try on his graduation hat.
Saidah passed on hers to Nankya Madelena.
And soon more of the ladies were getting in on the act!
What a thrill for everyone at Suubi to take part in such a momentous event. Lubanda village will remember the event for a long time to come and we are sure it will inspire others to follow their dreams and reach their full potential.
HUGs from the team!
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