Alebtong, Uganda | In a passionate appeal, Ms. Rebecca Ruth Abeja, Director of Alpha International Nursery and Primary School in Abia Town Council, Alebtong District, has challenged the prevailing practice of prioritizing girls over boys in educational support programs by NGOs and government initiatives.
Speaking to our reporter via phone on October 25, 2025, Abeja emphasized the need for a shift in this approach to ensure equitable opportunities for all children.
“For a long time, support has been directed to only girls in education, leaving boys, yet they also have basic needs,” Abeja stated.
She argued that the current focus on empowering girls, while important, has inadvertently sidelined boys, who face similar challenges and require equal support to thrive.
“Every child is equal in the eyes of God and will become somebody with the ability to help the community in the near future when given support,” she added, underscoring her belief in the potential of every child to contribute meaningfully to society when provided with the right opportunities.
Abeja’s call for inclusivity comes at a time when gender-specific programs have gained traction in Uganda, often focusing on girls’ education to address historical disparities.
However, she contends that neglecting boys risks creating new imbalances, as both genders face economic and social barriers to education in rural areas like Alebtong District.
She urged stakeholders to adopt a more balanced approach, ensuring that resources and opportunities are distributed equitably to nurture the potential of all children.
In addition to advocating for equal support, Abeja offered practical advice to parents facing financial constraints.
“I encourage parents who can’t afford higher education to send their children to vocational and skills training hubs as a means to light their future,” she said.
She highlighted the transformative power of vocational training, which equips young people with practical skills to secure livelihoods and contribute to their communities.
This approach, she believes, can serve as a viable alternative for families unable to access formal education due to economic challenges.
Alpha International Nursery and Primary School, founded by the young and visionary Abeja, has quickly emerged as a beacon of hope in Northern Uganda.
Established just a year ago in Abia Town Council, the school has grown rapidly, now boasting an enrollment of over 155 children and a dedicated staff of nine teachers.
The institution’s modern infrastructure and commitment to quality education have set a new standard for learning in the region.
At the heart of Alpha International’s mission is its core value of fostering God-fearing citizens.
Abeja envisions a future where her students grow into educated, principled individuals who contribute positively to their communities and the nation at large.
“Our goal is to build a better community of educated and God-fearing citizens of Uganda,” she said, outlining her vision for the school’s role in shaping the region’s future.
The school’s rapid growth and success reflect Abeja’s dedication and innovative leadership.
By prioritizing both academic excellence and moral values, Alpha International is carving out a unique space in Alebtong District’s educational landscape.
Its achievements in just one year signal a promising future, not only for the institution but also for the children and families it serves.
Abeja’s remarks highlight a critical issue in Uganda’s educational and developmental landscape: the need for inclusive policies that address the needs of all children, regardless of gender.
Her advocacy for vocational training also underscores the importance of diverse educational pathways to empower youth in economically challenged regions.
As Alpha International Nursery and Primary School continues to grow, it stands as a testament to what is possible when vision, dedication, and community focus converge.
Abeja’s message is clear: equitable support for all children, combined with practical solutions like vocational training, can pave the way for a brighter, more inclusive future for Uganda’s next generation.