Service Learning Projects in Uganda

What is service learning?

Service-learning is a hands-on learning approach that takes students out of the classroom and encourages them to actively participate in their learning while also developing their civic knowledge and skills. By engaging with local, national, and international non-profit and public organizations, students can better understand the course material by working on community-identified needs while learning more about their communities. At Suffolk, this method of learning can be implemented in any area of study.

Our service learning projects in Uganda

Our Service Learning Projects in Uganda are built by the communities they support, with the aim of giving visiting students the chance to engage in meaningful community service. Through participation, students can gain valuable life experiences in Africa while also building their skills. Our projects encompass a wide range of services, including conservation, education, community development, and health initiatives, and involve schools, clinics, sports initiatives and much more.

Community Sports Development

Overview of the Program

In an effort to create a positive impact in the lives of young people residing in vulnerable communities, we collaborate with local organizations who assist populations dealing with the complex challenges that come with poverty. Our students participate in sports activities in multiple underprivileged areas in Uganda, gaining insights from the viewpoints of the community and making a significant difference. The communities we engage with often encounter obstacles, such as inadequate housing, lack of services, minimal access to quality healthcare, high unemployment rates, and difficulties in education and skill development.

Learning Outcomes

• Develop skills in teaching physical education sessions at schools in Uganda
• Gain experience in how to design sports classes at schools, which can include new games, fitness tests, and competitions
• Learn how to teach sports at aftercare programs through organizing fun games, setting up obstacle courses and developing other creative activities
• Gain insight into the power of community-centred initiatives in Uganda as you work beside local professionals and the communities that they serve
• Share fresh ideas and motivation through sport with Ugandan children from vulnerable communities.

Initiatives undertaken by the community:

There are many ways of ways to get involved in the community, including opportunities to participate in sports facilitation, educational assistance, entrepreneurial training, and youth events.

Overview of the Project.

The lack of infrastructure in this area is unfortunately dire. Tarred roads, schools, electricity, piped water, policing, social services, sewerage treatment and medical clinics are virtually non-existent. The unemployment rate exceeds 70%. Regrettably, a significant percentage of children suffer abuse and malnutrition, and do not receive adequate education. This is particularly true for those who must take responsibility for their households.

The impact on the service.

When children return from school, they often find themselves alone and wandering around the villages due to a lack of social support. However, with a positive outlook on their future, there are numerous opportunities for them to become involved in community initiatives and shape their own experiences.

Our community project is a fantastic opportunity for:

• Strengthening social bonds (together with our partner organizations)
• Providing educational support (including Pre-School)
• Conducting home visits
• Teaching valuable life skills
• Offering entrepreneurial guidance
• Hosting fun children’s afternoon clubs
• Training in market gardening
• Forming supportive groups
• Organizing lively youth events
• Encouraging sports activities
• Implementing work-for-food initiatives