Our project, titled

“Support for Vocational Training Schools for
Persons with Disabilities
and Raising Disability Awareness in Western Uganda“,

funded by the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) and Korea Food for the Hungry International (KFHI), is grounded in a simple belief that every person deserves the chance to learn, work, and participate fully in their community. Operating across Kasese, Bunyangabu, and Bundibugyo, the project focuses on creating practical opportunities for persons with disabilities while challenging the attitudes and barriers that limit their inclusion.

The project stands on two mutually reinforcing pillars. The first pillar strengthens vocational training pathways by supporting more than 150 learners with disabilities through skills development, mentorship, assistive devices, and improved learning environments. By working closely with vocational training institutes, the project aims to expand both the capacity of schools and the confidence of students so they can transition into employment or entrepreneurship with dignity.

The second pillar focuses on transforming public understanding of disability. Through awareness campaigns, community dialogues, and engagement with local leaders, the project encourages a view of disability as a natural part of human diversity. This work seeks to reduce stigma and inspire institutions, families, and employers to adopt inclusive and supportive practices.

A key element of the project is its partnership with the National Council for Persons with Disabilities. This collaboration represents only the second time in Uganda’s disability rights history that the Council has formally partnered with a foreign institution. The partnership signals trust, shared purpose, and a commitment to advancing rights based approaches for persons with disabilities at both community and policy levels.

The project has also received recognition for its impact and leadership. It was selected as KOICA’s Best Project of 2025 and awarded the Standing Together with Community Award by the Korea NGO Council for Overseas Development Cooperation. These honors reflect the dedication of the project team, the resilience of the learners, and the strength of local partnerships across Western Uganda.