My name is Kirarire Annan, a teacher leader at St. Joseph Katosi R/C Primary School, serving under the Teach For Uganda fellowship in the rural community of Katosi. Home visits have become a vital part of my strategy to support student learning and development.
When I first began teaching in Katosi, I quickly realized that many students faced significant challenges stemming from their disadvantaged backgrounds. Limited access to basic resources and educational support at home created substantial barriers to their academic progress. To address this, I adopted regular home visits to better understand my students' circumstances and identify their specific needs. These visits allowed me to meet with parents and caregivers, assess the learning environment, and find ways to provide holistic support.
One moving example involved two students, Ndagire Saluah and Kizza Douglas, who had previously dropped out due to lack of resources and support. Ndagire was raised by her elderly grandmother, while Kizza was living with his grandparents after losing both parents. During my visit, I was disheartened to see them living in temporary wooden structures with minimal clothing, often sleeping on the ground.
Before my intervention, Ndagire Saluah struggled. Afterward, her situation improved, transforming her educational journey.
Moved by their plight, I secured a bursary to cover their school fees and personally provided clothes, blankets, and other basic necessities. When I shared this news, their grandparents were overwhelmed with gratitude, embracing me with tears. Both children were visibly excited to return to school, eager to learn.
After a successful home visit intervention , Kizza Douglas finally began attending school.
Since then, I have seen remarkable transformations. Both Ndagire and Kizza returned to school with renewed hope and now excel academically. Ndagire, previously withdrawn, has become an active participant in class, diligently completing homework and performing well in her subjects. Kizza, who used to frequently absent himself, now demonstrates excellent attendance and progress, focusing and engaging enthusiastically in learning.
They both express profound gratitude and share their dreams. Ndagire aspires to become a nurse, while Kizza hopes to one day start his own business. The support they received has removed barriers that once hindered their education and well-being.
This success is part of a broader positive change I’ve witnessed across Katosi. Families feel more empowered to support their children’s education, and the community has rallied around ensuring every child has the opportunity to succeed. Students at risk of dropping out are now actively participating in their learning, and parents appreciate the tangible support that alleviates financial and emotional burdens.
Annan Kirarire assisting a learner inside the classroom at St. Joseph Katosi R/C Primary School.
While home visits demand additional effort, I believe they are essential for addressing the complex needs of rural learners like Ndagire and Kizza. Understanding each child's unique circumstances allows for tailored interventions that truly make a difference. I am committed to continuing this practice throughout my work as a Teach For Uganda fellow, striving to create more equitable educational opportunities for all children in Katosi.
Written by:
Kirarire Annan, Cohort 6 Fellow
St. Joseph Katosi R/C Primary School, Mukono District.
