As usual, UPLIFT West Nile arranged its Annual Graduation and Empowerment event. This event is a time of celebration for literacy students that have successfully completed their one-year training program and passed the government literacy exam. It is also an opportunity to provide important information to invited guests and others about sexual and reproductive health and rights. Of special focus this year was the challenge of reducing the high number of unwanted teenage pregnancies.
The event took place May 2nd on a hot, sunny day in Pakwach District, West Nile.
In attendance were invited guests such as district government officials, UPLIFT staff, many of the UPLIFT volunteers, a large contingent of local villagers, and the always present flock of curious children.
Some 2.000 people attended the event, making it one of the best ever attended events. Speeches, songs, cultural dances and sketches highlighting the importance of learning to read and write, as well as topics of sexual and reproductive health and rights were presented to an enthusiastic crowd during the daylong event.
Government officials held speeches and spoke to UPLIFT staff underscoring the need for closer collaboration, even that districts might provide financial support to UPLIFT activities.
All in all, a joyous, successful event, illustrating the synergy of positive collaboration between civil society and government.
Writing in sand with all five vowels – a e i o u!