In the heart of Chipanje Chetu lies a beacon of hope for education and community development: the Umi Wango Education Program. Managed by the dedicated Yambone team, Umi Wango stands as a testament to the power of grassroots initiatives in transforming lives and shaping futures. But what exactly is Umi Wango, and how does it impact the lives of those it serves?

At its core, Umi Wango comprises three distinct yet interconnected sub-programs, each designed to address specific needs within the community: the Secondary School Scholarship, the Primary School Feeding Program, and the Teaching Assistant Program.

The first pillar of Umi Wango is the Secondary School Scholarship, a program that aims to break down barriers to education by providing young students with the opportunity to attend high school. For many families in Chipanje Chetu and surrounding areas, the cost of secondary education can be prohibitive, leaving talented and motivated students without access to further learning. Through the Secondary School Scholarship, deserving students are granted the chance to pursue their academic aspirations at Macaloge Secondary School, a boarding school located just outside the Chipanje Chetu project area on the southern border. By investing in these students’ education, Umi Wango not only empowers individuals but also fosters the development of a more educated and empowered community.

Complementing the Secondary School Scholarship is the Primary School Feeding Program, a vital initiative aimed at tackling the issue of regular attendance among primary school students. Recognising the significant impact of good nutrition on learning outcomes and overall well-being, Umi Wango provides nutritious meals to children attending primary school within the community. By ensuring that students have access to regular meals, the program not only encourages attendance and supports their physical health but also enhances their ability to concentrate in class and engage in learning activities effectively. Moreover, the Primary School Feeding Program serves as a lifeline for families facing economic hardship, easing the financial burden of providing nutritious meals for their children.

Lastly, the Teaching Assistant Program embodies the spirit of community empowerment by harnessing local talent and expertise to improve educational outcomes. Through this initiative, educated members of the community are trained to become assistant teachers within their own villages. By working alongside certified educators, these teaching assistants provide invaluable support in the classroom, helping to facilitate learning and provide personalised attention to students. Furthermore, the program serves as a platform for professional development, equipping participants with valuable skills and experience that can enhance their career prospects in the education sector.

Together, these three sub-programs form the backbone of the Umi Wango Education Program, embodying its mission to promote access to quality education and foster community development. By addressing the multifaceted challenges faced by students and educators alike, Umi Wango not only transforms individual lives but also lays the groundwork for a brighter and more prosperous future for the communities of Chipanje Chetu.

In essence, Umi Wango is more than just an educational initiative; it is a catalyst for change, empowerment, and hope. Through its tireless efforts and unwavering commitment to education, the program continues to uplift and inspire generations of learners, leaving an indelible mark on the fabric of Chipanje Chetu’s collective journey towards progress and prosperity.

For more information please visit the program’s website.

For donations to the Umi Wango Scholarship, please contact emily@yambone.com