The journey from Mbarara to Light Academy unfolds along rugged red dirt
roads bordered by lush green pastures. Along the way, you’ll notice slender
cows with imposing horns ambling through the fields and goats of all sizes
tied to trees, quietly grazing on tall grasses. The roadside scenes are equally
memorable—“boda bodas” (motorcycles) ferry entire families, women
balance tall bundles gracefully on their heads as they walk, and children
hurriedly hide among the maize when a van carrying “mzungus” (white
people) passes by.
These are just a few of the sights that greeted ONE30 passengers on their
first visit to Itara, a remote “last mile” community in Uganda. Situated roughly
25 kilometers from Mbarara, reaching Itara involves a 40-minute journey over
rough, seemingly forgotten paths until a modest roadside market comes into
view.
By their very nature, “last mile” villages like Itara are isolated from many basic
services. Residents face significant challenges such as limited healthcare,
education, and economic opportunities. There’s no electricity or running
water, transportation is scarce, and overall community infrastructure is
minimal.
Yet, in the heart of Itara stands Light Academy—a place where the
community’s resilient spirit shines brighter than any material resource. People
traveling with ONE30 often say, “There is no place like Light Academy!” In the
humble sanctuary of their small church, over 60 students sleep each night.
With the dawn comes a vibrant gathering of about 250 young learners, all coming together to celebrate life and absorb every lesson their devoted teachers share.
Every morning, the students embark on a steep trek down the hill to collect
water in their yellow jerrycans, then rush back uphill for a meal of posho—provided by Pastor Stella if she can manage it that day. They pray and hold onto the hope of enjoying rice and beans for lunch, despite the absence of desks, school supplies, proper beds, mosquito nets, and even adequate bathrooms or kitchens. The children of Light Academy sing, dance,
and play soccer with makeshift balls and goals, set against the backdrop of a breathtaking, verdant mountain!
Above all, they have hope—a hope that Light Academy’s future will be
transformed now that ONE30 has discovered them. It is a hope that daily
struggles can be eased and opportunities for a brighter tomorrow can be
nurtured. You can be a part of this grassroots community transformation by
supporting these students. Consider sponsoring a student from Light
Academy or visit this link to help bring hope to orphans and vulnerable
children in Itara, Uganda.
