24/05/2024
14 enthusiastic students embarked on a two-week service learning trip to Uganda in Africa from 24 May to 7 June 2024. This once-in-a-lifetime opportunity allowed them to immerse themselves in the local community and experience its vibrant culture firsthand.
All the students were eagerly anticipating meeting people and experiencing new things during their journey in Uganda!
Uganda, like many other regions in Africa, faces serious challenges such as poverty, gender inequality, and baby abandonment. During this journey, students deeply engaged with diverse communities across Uganda, gaining a profound understanding of the hardships these communities face every day. The students visited abandoned women living in the slums of Uganda, taking the time to talk with them and actively listen to their stories. Despite the harsh conditions they faced and having difficult pasts, these resilient women still maintained a sense of hope.
Furthermore, the students had the opportunity to care for babies at two baby centers. These babies were full of energy and enthusiasm. Students made tireless efforts to bring them happiness, and learnt that taking care of infants required love and patience.
The most important task of the trip was to renovate an old classroom into a toy library. Before the departure, students collected, cleaned, and sorted secondhand toys in Hong Kong. They also packed several suitcases with toys and craft supplies and brought to Watoto Children’s Village. In just three days, they created a toy library with an African savanna theme, providing a joyful space specially for the village children.
College students also organised various interactive activities for local students. For instance, they designed the “Appreciation Tree” exercise, where compliments were written on leaves and exchanged. This actively foster appreciation for others and encourage self-value based on the positive feedback. Additionally, they taught local students how to make small flowers, which they then gifted to respected individuals as a thankful gesture. These activities not only enhanced the classroom experience but also underscored the importance of appreciation and gratitude.
When visiting Uganda, a trip to the national park is an absolute must! Before concluding their journey, students seize the opportunity to appreciate a variety of wildlife up close and immerse themselves in the breathtaking natural scenery.
While Uganda may be unfamiliar to some, this programme offers a fantastic chance to explore Africa and make a positive impact on this land. If you are interested in this programme, don’t miss it next year!