When Akumu Moreen joined the Teach For Uganda Fellowship, She was embracing a mission to create lasting change. With a background in Mass Communication, she sought both professional growth and an opportunity to make a meaningful impact in underserved communities. The Fellowship became her platform to develop leadership and communication skills while pursuing her passion which was to empower girls in rural areas to overcome systemic barriers to education.
Akumu Moreen engaging learners in a play-based approach at Buzaama COU Primary School, fostering motivation and significantly reducing absenteeism.
Assigned to Buzaama COU Primary School, Moreen soon recognized the deep challenges young learners especially girls face. A pivotal moment came during a home visit, where she met Abigel, a student struggling with limited access to educational resources. Moved by her situation, Moreen took action, personally providing scholastic materials to support Abigel’s continued learning. “It was a turning point,” she reflects. “It gave my work new meaning.”
Abigel Baseke, a 9-year-old Primary 2 learner, received support from Akumu Moreen, enabling her to attend school regularly.
Determined to improve academic outcomes, Moreen introduced play-based learning strategies to foster engagement and participation. She also implemented ability-based grouping to provide targeted support, leading to significant gains in literacy and numeracy.
Among her most impactful initiatives is the SHE CLUB, a mentorship program dedicated to supporting adolescent girls. Through the club, girls receive guidance, emotional support, and practical skills—including training in making reusable sanitary pads. This initiative has boosted school attendance, improved hygiene, and increased self-confidence.
Akumu Moreen (center, in an orange T-shirt) with members of the SHE Club, a mentorship program dedicated to supporting and empowering female learners at Buzaama COU Primary School.
Now in her final year of the Fellowship, Moreen remains steadfast in her commitment to education.
“This experience has shaped my future,” she affirms. “I will be an educator for life.”
