Empowering and Enlightening Futures: Celebrating Graduates from Mababu and Matema Beach
By Emanuel Chikoti, Fides Magige, and Saraphiner Urio
Under the shade trees of Matema Beach Secondary School, graduates from two schools gathered to mark a milestone—one group beginning their secondary school journey and the other completing theirs. The graduates from both schools anticipated this day with much joy and excitement. Over 800 students in the EG&EB program attended the ceremony, with 148 primary school graduates standing alongside 82 secondary school graduates.
The ceremony opened with a lively scout show from Mababu Primary School students, which was followed by a series of performances by students depicting key learnings . The graduates of Mababu recited a poem titled “My Right,” which spoke passionately about child rights, such as the right to speak, to play, to good health, to a good life, and the right to access quality education. One memorable stanza echoed through the crowd:
“Right, right, right—right to education, education in its full form,
guided by parents and teachers with love and compassion,
to make one enjoy it, so we can reach our goals in life and our ambitions.”
Music and drama added to the day’s celebration. Mababu’s students sang an uplifting song and delivered a thought-provoking poem on the importance of education. Matema Beach’s Form Four students recited a heartfelt poem, which they followed with a vibrant skit that mimicked a parliamentary debate. This creative setup carried a strong message about the impact of the EG&EB clubs. After the performances, the head teachers of Mababu and Matema Beach expressed their pride in the graduates and their gratitude for the EG&EB clubs. Both teachers emphasized the importance of staying focused on one’s vision of the future. A representative of the Kyela District Education Officer and an EG&EB leader also spoke to congratulate the graduates.
The graduation ceremony ended with the distribution of certificates and awards. Each graduate walked up to the stage, proud and beaming, as they received their certificates—a symbol of their hard work and determination. The students also received their monthly distribution of hygiene supplies including dental paste, toothbrush, underwear, and soap. These essential items were provided as part of the EG&EB clubs’ commitment to promoting students’ well-being.
Scola, a graduate from Matema Beach, said “Apart from my birthday, Form Four graduations come close to being one of the most special days in my life.” Scola envisions herself as a pharmacist in the future, following in the footsteps of her brother. She said that after she finishes her national exams, she plans to “visit my brother so I can keep on learning and getting experience in pharmacy knowledge.” This action step towards her vision of greatness is a tangible result of the EG&EB curriculum and activities.
This beautiful ceremony was the perfect way to celebrate Mababu and Matema Beach graduates. We are so proud of these students for their academic achievement and commitment to their visions. To help the Empowered Girls and Enlightened Boys clubs continue to educate and celebrate students, donate at the link below.
