May 15, 2025
Part of the Russia Cultural Workshops Series – Busia County, May 2025
About the School
St. Brigid Namuduru Girls is a secondary day school located in Samia Sub-County, Busia County, founded in 2018. This institution, sponsored by the Constituency Development Fund (CDF) and World Vision, currently educates 115 students from Form 2 to Form 4 with a dedicated team of 11 teachers. Under the leadership of Principal Madam Lucy Lynn Adongo, the school strives to provide education and support for young women in the region.
Despite being a relatively new establishment, St. Brigid Namuduru Girls faces significant challenges. While Swahili is their best-performing subject and sports like netball, football, and handball are actively pursued, the school grapples with infrastructural limitations. Their science lab has minimal equipment, the computer lab is in disrepair with broken windows and no electricity, and there is no established library, with books often scattered on the floor.
When We Visited – 15 May 2025
Our “Path to Russia” team had the privilege of visiting St. Brigid Namuduru Girls on the afternoon of May 15, 2025. The aim of our visit was to engage with the students and staff, share cultural insights, and understand the school’s unique challenges and aspirations. The warm reception and the students’ eagerness to learn were truly inspiring, highlighting their resilience in the face of adversity.
Activities Conducted
During our visit, we focused on cultural exchange and identifying key areas for support:
- Russian Cultural Overview: We presented an engaging session on Russian history and culture, fostering curiosity and broadening the students’ global perspectives.
- Interactive Q&A: A vibrant question-and-answer session allowed students to explore various aspects of Russian life and education, creating a lively cultural dialogue.
- Needs Assessment Discussions: We held comprehensive discussions with the school administration to understand their most pressing needs, particularly concerning infrastructure and learning resources.
Challenges Observed
The visit underscored several critical challenges impacting the school’s ability to provide a comprehensive education:
- High Dropout Rate: A concerning number of students (approximately 30-40 annually) drop out due to factors like teenage pregnancies, poverty, and family responsibilities.
- Inadequate Learning Facilities: The school lacks a functional computer lab with internet, and the science lab is poorly equipped.
- No Structured Library: The absence of a proper library significantly hinders students’ access to reading materials and research opportunities.
- Low Student Motivation: A lack of exposure and resources contributes to low self-motivation among students.
- Financial Constraints: Low fee payment rates from parents affect the school’s operational capacity and teacher salaries.
Why It Matters
St. Brigid Namuduru Girls embodies the spirit of determination in providing education for young women in a challenging environment. The “Path to Russia” initiative believes that supporting such institutions is crucial for empowering the next generation. By addressing these fundamental needs, we can help create a more conducive learning environment that nurtures ambition and prevents early dropouts.
Looking Ahead
Our commitment to St. Brigid Namuduru Girls is focused on tangible improvements that will empower its students:
- Computer and Science Lab Renovation: Taking measurements to renovate and furnish both the computer and science laboratories, including securing internet connectivity for the computer lab.
- Library Establishment: Researching and establishing a structured library, and procuring essential books and learning materials.
- Classroom Renovation: Renovating and painting classrooms to create a more inviting and conducive learning environment.
- Mentorship Programs: Launching student motivation and mentorship programs to encourage retention and personal growth.
Through these concerted efforts, “Path to Russia” aims to equip St. Brigid Namuduru Girls with the resources needed to inspire its students to pursue their full potential.
