Latrines for At Risk Ugandan Kids

The photo above is of the current pit latrines. Completely full, they pose unsanitary conditions with students resorting to urinating and defecating in the bush rather than in the current facilities.



Bushika Junior Education Centre (BJEC) is a true labor of love and primary school dedicated to providing equal access to education, healthcare, proper nutrition and shelter for orphans and vulnerable children (OVCs) in a rural village in Eastern Uganda.

OVCs are children who are HIV positive and/or have lost one or both parents. For OVC children, school tuition and supplies are often unaffordable. At a typical school, if a child fails to pay tuition or attends school without the proper supplies (eg. pen, uniform), they are sent home.

The founders of BJEC identified this profound issue, and set out to create a school that would provide quality education to OVCs and other vulnerable children, regardless of their ability to pay. Staff is comprised of entirely volunteers who not only educate nursery and primary students, but also provide hot meals each day (sometimes the only one that a student receives). 

The school now serves over 200 students and is in desparate need of repair. Donated funds will be used to construct five new pit latrines and one urinal for both students and staff. The new pit latrines will last 10-15 years and serve many generations of students to come. 

The students that make up BJEC are full of hope. Many walk miles each day for a second chance at an education, and have unrelenting positivity in the face of so much adversity.

Having spent time volunteering with this amazing staff - who have dedicated their lives to helping the children no one else will - and in engaging with these remarkable students, I can attest to how much these new facilities will mean to this community. 

Please do not hesitate to reach out with questions regarding this project, the staff or students at the school.

On behalf of the entire staff and student body, we are so grateful for your support!

Richard Kimanayi - BJEC Director
Danielle Knapic - BJEC Volunteer