Lake Bunyonyi, located in western Uganda and covering an area of 60 square kilometres, contains 29 islands. Around the lake and on several of its islands, twelve Christian communities live, where daily life involves boat transportation: this is how people get to the hospital, church services, school, or the market. On one of the lake's islands, Bwama, there is a special school that serves not only the local community but also about 40,000 residents in the region. The institution is maintained by the Anglican Diocese of Kigezi, and both students and teachers arrive every day by boat.
Over the years, the condition of the school deteriorated dramatically: the classrooms became life-threatening, one of the primary school buildings had to be demolished, and traveling on the lake often became unsafe. Teachers often had difficulty reaching their workplace, especially during bad weather. Teaching was interrupted, and the safety of the students was not guaranteed.
To improve the situation, thanks to the joint efforts of the Hungary Helps Program and the Jane Goodall Institute in 2022, school boats, docks, and life jackets were first delivered to the area. In 2023, with further support, the renovation of the school buildings began. By 2024, all the work was completed: a safe staircase was constructed to access the school, and the interiors of the main building were finished. Keeping local needs in mind, developments were implemented that offer long-term solutions: a new auditorium, accommodations for four teachers, and a safe night shelter for students in case storms prevent them from traveling home. Additionally, in 2024, swimming lessons for students began, and with the help of the Ugandan Jane Goodall Institute, swimming education was integrated into the school curriculum, along with the Roots & Shoots program (an international environmental education initiative founded by Dr. Jane Goodall to encourage young people to take action).
During the Hungary Helps delegation's visit in August 2025, we emphasized: "For us, every student is a winner. Crossing the lake daily, being present, learning, and supporting each other – all require courage, perseverance, and heart." At the ceremony, we honoured the top fourteen students from grades 1 to 7, providing a touching experience both for the students and for us.
The ceremonial handover was attended not only by students and teachers but also by the region’s religious and political leaders, including Anglican Bishop Gaddie Akanjuna, James Byamukama, CEO of the Jane Goodall Institute Uganda, and representatives of the organization from Hungary. The speakers – including the school principal – expressed sincere gratitude for the Hungarian support.
We warmly congratulate the Jane Goodall Institute on their outstanding work in the region, which brings real change to the lives of local communities. Today, students on Bwama Island can study in a modern, safe environment. The developments have not only renewed the physical school but have also strengthened the cohesion of the communities around the lake and contributed to building a more conscious and hopeful future.
