PLATFORM for the NEEDY (PLANE) runs a comprehensive Education and Child Sponsorship Program aimed at transforming the lives of vulnerable children in Fort Portal Tourism City and Kabarole District. The program provides essential support to children from disadvantaged backgrounds, ensuring they have the tools and opportunities to succeed in school and beyond.
Sponsored children receive scholastic materials such as exercise books, textbooks, pens, pencils, rulers, and mathematical sets. They are also provided with school bags, uniforms, shoes, and hygiene items including soap and sanitary pads for girls. PLANE covers full or partial school fees for both primary and secondary education, and offers menstrual hygiene education and psychosocial support for adolescent girls. In addition, children benefit from mentorship sessions, career guidance, and empowerment workshops that build confidence and life skills.
PLANE believes that every child deserves a chance to learn, dream, and succeed. By investing in education, the organization nurtures future leaders and strengthens community resilience.
Education and Poverty in Uganda
Uganda has made significant strides in expanding access to education, especially through the introduction of Universal Primary Education (UPE) and Universal Secondary Education (USE). However, challenges persist. Many children, particularly in rural areas, still face barriers such as overcrowded classrooms, underqualified teachers, and lack of basic learning materials. Girls are disproportionately affected, often dropping out due to early marriage, menstruation-related stigma, or domestic responsibilities.
Poverty remains a major obstacle. Over 20% of Ugandans live below the national poverty line, and families struggle to afford school fees, uniforms, and supplies. For orphaned and vulnerable children, the situation is even direr. Without external support, many are forced to abandon their education altogether.
PLANE’s program directly addresses these gaps by removing financial and social barriers to education. Through targeted sponsorship and community engagement, it offers children a pathway out of poverty and into a future filled with possibility.
