Education creates opportunities, builds confidence, and gives children hope for a better future. That is why IWOF continues to expand its efforts in Uvira through a growing partnership with the NY School located near Grace Orphanage.

The new school facility is still under construction, but the first two lower floors are already being used as classrooms. Around 200 students currently attend classes there, including children from Grace Orphanage.

Located less than a 10 minute walk from the orphanage, the school allows children to access learning in a safe and supportive environment while staying connected to their community.

This new partnership reflects the organization’s strategy: “To Partner, To Improve, Everyone Wins.”

By working together with local educators and community leaders, the goal is to improve the quality of education available to children in Uvira. The organization is becoming more actively involved in educational development while helping provide students with better opportunities for long term success.

Future plans for the school include:

• Adding a library for reading and learning resources
• Building a computer lab to improve digital learning opportunities
• Creating a science lab for hands on education and discovery

These additions are designed to give students access to a more complete educational experience and help prepare them for future opportunities.

The organization is also expanding its reach into the wider community.

For the upcoming school year, Grace Orphanage has adopted 50 additional community children from host families. Many of these children are also orphans who are being cared for by grandmothers, aunties, or relatives.

Without educational support, many of these children would not have the chance to attend school.

By extending assistance beyond the orphanage, the program is helping more vulnerable children gain access to education, stability, and hope for the future.