Educating African Youth
Diane Macdonald
Thanks to a fund started by a donation in 2011 from the estate of Curly Galbraith, a long-time member of our Club, 72 young people in Uganda are employed in well -paying jobs. They are Ugandan AIDS orphans and similarly disadvantaged youth who were chosen by a committee of Rotarians in Uganda to be supported and mentored through their post-secondary education in trade schools or universities.
A core principle of EAY is to ensure that full funding for each student’s entire education is secured before they are accepted into the program. Adequate funds are allocated to cover tuition, books, accommodation, meals and a small stipend for miscellaneous expenses. On average, the annual cost of supporting a student is approximately USD $850, with most programs completed within three to four years. The program is administered by our Educating African Youth Committee which is a sub-committee of the World Community Service Committee of our Club. The corresponding EAY committee of Rotarians in Uganda oversees the distribution of funds which are sent each semester.
Graduates of the program have begun to give back. Many graduates have been responsible for supporting younger siblings and they began paying for the education of their family members. Now, some of the early graduates are able to contribute to the EAY program itself to help pay for future students. We are hopeful that one day the program will be self-sustaining.
Below are letters recently received from two graduates of the program, expressing their gratitude. To read letters please click Read More to see these under Story Content
We are contributing to lifting a community out of poverty. Our committee currently consists of Diane Macdonald and Bertie Kawooya. If you would like more information about the program (or would, perhaps, like to make a small contribution) just let us know.
The Rotary club
Kalisizo
Dear members of the Rotary club,
RE; LETTER OF APPRECIATION FOR ACADEMIC SUPPORT.
I am writing this letter with profound gratitude to sincerely thank the rotary club for the generous support throughout my academic journey at Kyambogo University. Your sponsorship enabled me to successfully complete my Degree in Architecture from 2020 to 2024.
It is because of your unwavering assistance that I was able to focus fully on my studies and growth both academically and personally. I am pleased to inform you that shortly after graduation, I secured employment with ALN Design and build, where I’m currently engaged as head architect following my recent promotion. This opportunity has allowed me to apply my skills in a professional setting and gain valuable experience in the field.
Furthermore, I am now processing of planning and preparing to establish my own architectural firm- a dream that is becoming a reality thanks to the foundation you helped me build. Your support did not only impact my life but also inspired me to strive towards making a meaningful contribution to society.
Once again, I’d like to extend my special thanks to our donors in the Rotary Club of Calgary who have generously contributed to my education. Mr. Kyaluzi Francis Xavier, head of rotary club Kalisizo who recruited me and my handler to get access to this great opportunity, thank you for believing in me and investing in my future.
I will always carry with me the values of service, commitment and excellence that you exemplify. Your kindness, resilience and humanity will never go to waste.
Yours sincerely, MUBIRU DEUS LEAD ARCHITECT
8th June, 2025.
From Carol Nalutaaya
Kalisizo Town Council
Kyotera District,
To The President and members
Rotary Club of Kyotera.
Dear Club President,
Re: Appreciations
With gratitude, I am
writing this letter to expresses my sincere thank to the club and members of the Rotary Club of Calgary who are our main sponsors for your generous educational support given to us which has helped become a Public Dentistry Officer I sincerely appreciate because without your support I would be what I am.
writing this letter to expresses my sincere thank to the club and members of the Rotary Club of Calgary who are our main sponsors for your generous educational support given to us which has helped become a Public Dentistry Officer I sincerely appreciate because without your support I would be what I am.I regret on the passing away of PDG Garth Toombs the funder of this program. We really lost a father and a mentor. May his soul rest in peace.
I graduated in 2015 and after my graduation, I worked in a number of places but on very little pay until I settled and started my own dental Clinic called Munno Dental Clinic here in Kalisizo.
The work is going on well and I can see my dream becoming a reality. Thanks to the foundation you gave me which has helped me build my financial capacity. Now I am able to support myself and my family. Your support did not only impact my life but also inspired and motivated me to think of other vulnerable children and make a meaningful contribution to their wellbeing.
Time has come to join my brothers and sisters and contribute to TRACC/EAY alumni Education fund as a way of helping other vulnerable Children.