Luuka district authorities have lauded the efforts of non-governmental organizations (NGOs) for their impactful support to youths, particularly girls, during and after the extended COVID-19 pandemic. The pandemic, lasting over three years, prompted a nationwide lockdown enforced by President H.E Yoweri Kaguta Museveni. With students returning to their homes to mitigate virus exposure, Luuka, Buyende, and Kaliro districts experienced a surge in teenage pregnancies, posing challenges to education and well-being.
Despite government directives for pregnant girls to return to school, many in Luuka hesitated, prompting NGOs like the Women and Children’s Foundation (PECA) to intervene. Focusing on three severely affected sub-counties – Nawampiti, Bulongo, and Luuka Town Council – PECA established networks to assist affected girls in rebuilding their lives. The organization embarked on providing vocational training, particularly in tailoring and hairdressing, to equip these girls with valuable skills.
A milestone celebration unfolded on November 30, 2023, as 100 girls graduated with certificates of proficiency in tailoring and hairdressing. The ceremony, held at Budhabangula, Luuka Town Council, reflected the success of PECA’s commitment to empowering young lives.
PECA Director Annet Njuba expressed the organization’s dedication to supporting these girls in their pursuit of a better future. She emphasized that PECA covers all educational expenses for its students, emphasizing the importance of empowering the youth affected by the lockdown.
“Since the COVID-19 lockdown, many girls faced challenges in the villages, causing them to be reluctant to return to school due to pregnancies. PECA stepped in to assist these children, hoping that they can lead meaningful lives in the future,” said Annet Njuba.
Luuka Deputy Resident District Commissioner (RDC) Waiswa Paul Bwenibwamwiko extended gratitude to PECA for their impactful work in the district. He commended the NGO’s collaboration with the government in supporting children affected by the lockdown, expressing the RDC office’s full support for such initiatives in Luuka.
“I would like to thank PECA for their assistance in Luuka and for working with the government to support children affected by the lockdown. The RDC office is pleased with this initiative in Luuka, and we will support and encourage others to join this program,” stated Deputy RDC Waiswa Paul Bwenibwamwiko.
Busimawu Ward LC II Chairman Kiiza Regan appreciated the Luuka district local government for facilitating the work of NGOs like PECA. He acknowledged the positive impact of such initiatives, now materializing as the first batch of graduates begins their journey toward self-sustainability.
