On Sunday, December 8, 2024, Bulogo Village in Kamuli District was abuzz with celebration as the first cohort of students from the Compassion Vocational School graduated in a vibrant ceremony filled with pride and hope. This graduation marked a significant milestone in a transformation journey ignited by the Global Compassion Coalition (GCC) Uganda.
Kamuli District is home to many villagers struggling to meet basic needs. Most people live on less than a dollar a day, and youth unemployment, drug abuse, and early school dropouts are widespread. Despite these challenges, a beacon of hope has emerged through the GCC Uganda, which, under the leadership of National Coordinator Peter Waiswa, has been working tirelessly to bring change to the region.
Vocational training
In 2023, GCC launched a vocational training program aimed at empowering young people with practical skills to improve their livelihoods. The program, which began with a few disciplines like mechanics, tailoring, and hairdressing, has since expanded into the now thriving Compassion Vocational School. The school has become a place of opportunity for many youths from Bulogo and surrounding areas, offering them a chance to break the cycle of poverty and build better futures.
The graduation ceremony was a celebration of the achievements of 60 students who successfully completed their training in mechanics, tailoring, hairdressing, computer studies, and carpentry. These students were recognized for their hard work and determination, earning certificates that will serve as the foundation for their future careers.
Graduating in style
The day began with an inspiring march-past parade, led by the graduating students, accompanied by a brass band, as they walked proudly through the village. The procession, which covered a 12-kilometer stretch, was a symbol of the hope and determination now alive in the community. It was followed by speeches from various leaders and dignitaries, all of whom praised the GCC’s efforts and expressed their support for the continued growth of the vocational school.
Uplifting the community
The Local Council Chairperson of the zone, where GCC’s head office is located, was one of the first to speak. He commended the GCC for its efforts to uplift the community and expressed optimism for the future.
“There is now hope for the youth in this area,” he said, acknowledging that the vocational training programs have opened doors for many who had previously been without opportunity. He promised to continue collaborating with the GCC to transform the lives of local youth.
The Chairperson of the Local Government Council also expressed his admiration for GCC’s work, particularly its programs for vulnerable individuals like Barbara, a disabled girl who had received support from the organization. His words echoed the sentiment of gratitude felt by many in the village.
The National Coordinator, Peter Waiswa, took to the stage to reflect on the journey of the Compassion Vocational School and the broader vision of GCC. He shared the organization’s core belief that meaningful change begins in the heart, not through wealth, technology, or power. He recounted the story of the first tailoring instructor, who selflessly volunteered her time and sewing machine to start the program. Her act of kindness inspired many others to contribute their time and resources, leading to the thriving school that stands today.
Waiswa encouraged the graduates to continue living with integrity, compassion, and dedication in their chosen fields, reminding them that their work could have a profound impact on the community. His message was clear: the real power to change the world lies within each individual, and it starts with the choices we make every day.
Guest of honor
The event was graced by the District Chairperson, Mr. Maxwell Kuwembula, who served as the guest of honor. In his speech, he praised the GCC for its timely intervention and its alignment with the government’s agenda to provide youth with practical skills through the new school curriculum. Kuwembula promised to help ensure that the Compassion Vocational School is formally registered as a recognized educational institution, with the legal status and resources it needs to continue its work. He also made a personal pledge to support the school by providing tools and resources for the students, including sponsoring a tool kit for the top-performing female mechanic graduate and a sewing machine to enhance the school’s capacity.
The parents, who attended the ceremony with tears of joy, expressed their deep gratitude for the opportunities their children now have. They pledged their unwavering support to ensure that GCC’s work continues and grows. Many of them were amazed at how their children, who had once struggled with poverty and hopelessness, had gained valuable skills that could help them become self-sufficient.
A path to future success
The day concluded with a display of the students’ finished products, including dresses, shirts, and homemade liquid soap, which demonstrated their newly acquired skills. The success of the Compassion Vocational School is already visible in the quality of work produced by the students, and the event left no doubt that these young people are on a path to success.
Religious, police, and government leaders who attended the ceremony all offered their support and hailed the work of GCC, recognizing its impact not only in Bulogo but across the district and beyond. Many pledged to collaborate with GCC to ensure the school’s continued growth and success.
As the certificates were handed out and a celebratory lunch was served, it was clear that this graduation was more than just a ceremony. It was a symbol of hope, resilience, and the power of compassion. Through the tireless efforts of the Global Compassion Coalition Uganda and its supporters, the future of Bulogo village and its youth is brighter than ever before.
The Compassion Vocational School stands as a testament to the transformative power of education, community, and compassion—values that are changing lives one skill at a time