As we come to the end of another year, at JJ we look back with thankfulness, and celebrate this year’s achievements and progress.

A year ago, we were excited about the significant leap forward made with the addition of JJ Excel College. In 2018 JJ was able to offer certificate and diploma courses in various tech nical/vocational and business subjects.

By the end of 2018 there was a balance to pay for the purchase of the college (UGX 38.2m, about £8000); work needed to be done on rather essential improvements to the college facilities; more classroom space and resources were needed for the introduction of Senior 6 at the secondary school; some classrooms still need finishing (plastering and floors); the school needed to register as a sitting centre for A Levels; funding was needed for the construction of a boys’ dormitory, as well as for ongoing salaries for the primary school, and running costs for the college. We were extremely thankful for a grant received towards the end of 2018 to cover the essential improvements at the college, but it was rather daunting to consider all the other needs.

Looking back now over the activities of 2019, we testify that our Lord continues to provide in amazing ways:

* Funding has been received to clear the outstanding balance for the purchase of the college land and buildings.

* There has been progress in the boys dormitory construction, and the rooms constructed so far have served as classrooms for A Level students.

* The secondary school was granted provisional A Level sitting centre status.

* All running costs have been covered, with much of the primary and college salaries funded by donations.

* One of JJ’s first Senior Four graduates was recruited as a teacher at the primary school.

Having lost both parents, and with other relatives unable to provide, he received free education, with boarding accommodation during his time at JJ and is now using part of his income to help others in his extended family to access education.

* Over 800 children and young people supported with education at various levels.

It has been our particular joy to see two young people who have both been completely dependent on JJ for their secondary education, complete Senior Four (O Levels). Tim (not real name), lost both his parents, and was referred to us by a government official from a neighbouring sub-county. The official discovered he had dropped out of education and was fetching water in his local area to earn money for food. He has been boarding at the school since Senior 2 and has consistently achieved grades within the top 5 in his year. Ann (name changed), also a total orphan, took the initiative to request a free place at the school, having no relative to help fund her education. Initially she lived with an Aunty within walking distance, but later moved into the boarding section due to concerns relating to the home environment. Both served as Chapel Prefects, and were model students in terms of their behaviour, effort in their studies and participation in school activities.

Primary school “Speech Day” 2019.

As a growing organisation, there continues to be many demands for funding, but as we look back over 2019, and prepare to celebrate Christmas and the New Year, we wanted to share with you our joy, thanking God for His amazing provision, and celebrating the generosity and kindness of our supporters.

For more photos from the primary school “Speech Day”, please see the gallery.