SEDCU - Supporting Vulnerable Children Through Education

SEDCU is a small charity founded in 2012 that has grown and evolved over the years. Its main mission is to support the education of vulnerable children by encouraging individuals to sponsor their schooling, from primary education to university. Currently, 35 children are either receiving sponsorship or have recently graduated and begun their careers. Over 40% have disabilities, primarily deafness, visual impairment, or blindness, while others have been orphaned, abandoned, made homeless, or face extreme poverty. Around 56% of those supported are girls, with ages ranging from 5 to 26.

Children with various disabilities enjoying education at KDS school.

In its early years, SEDCU concentrated on supporting two primary schools: Mgahinga Community Junior School (MCJS), a private school in a remote rural area near the Rwandan and DRC borders, and Kisoro Demonstration School (KDS), a state school in a nearby town that includes a poorly funded unit for children with disabilities. Over time, both schools have experienced significant growth in student enrolment and improvements in educational standards.

Graduate sponsored student in employment at a refugee camp.

As sponsored children have matured, many have advanced to secondary and higher education, with some successfully graduating.

SEDCU not only operates a sponsorship program but also funds initiatives aimed at improving school facilities, supporting teacher training, and providing various opportunities to expand children's experiences. The charity raises funds in the UK and transfers them to Uganda for designated purposes. With no employed staff, administrative costs remain under 3% of total funds. Trustees personally cover their travel expenses when visiting Uganda, which typically occurs every two years.

SEDCU’s collaboration with Leo Lion Foundation began in July 2023, focusing on initiatives to enhance and expand educational opportunities at the two primary schools. These efforts have included four environmental study trips, allowing children to explore their country, appreciate its wildlife and landscapes, and understand the importance of environmental conservation and sustainability. Additionally, children with disabilities have taken part in two annual National Junior Paralympic Games, as well as both a National and an International Scouting Jamboree in Kenya. Furthermore, funding has been provided for the Head Teacher of MCJS to pursue a three-year university degree, which he completes during school holidays in his own time.

We look forward to hearing more about SEDCU's projects and the impact of this partnership.

KDS pupils on an environmental study trip.