Words of Wisdom

Empowering Young Minds through Literacy

Words to Wisdom: Empowering Young Minds Through Literacy

Every September, Rotary International shines a light on one of its key areas of focus; Basic Education and Literacy. It is a reminder that education is the foundation for opportunity, community growth, and lasting peace. This year, Buddy Group Buzzi of the Rotary and Rotaract Club of Bwebajja brought this message to life through the Words to Wisdom Project, hosted at The New High Tech Secondary School in Kajjansi.

The school, home to more than 1,300 learners from humble backgrounds, represents resilience and determination. Despite limited resources, students and teachers remain committed to pursuing knowledge. Recognizing both the challenges and the promise within these walls, the Buzzi team set out to make a tangible difference.

At the heart of the initiative was the donation of Oxford Advanced Learner’s Dictionaries a timeless resource for any student. These dictionaries are more than just books; they are gateways to comprehension, vocabulary growth, and self-confidence. For many of the learners, it was their very first personal reference book. Alongside these, students received school bags and dozens of counter books to support their daily academic needs. These simple yet powerful tools are now easing the burden on families and fueling consistent learning.

But the Words to Wisdom Project went further than materials. The highlight of the day was a Career Guidance and Mentorship session, where volunteer professionals shared personal journeys and insights across diverse fields. From medicine to entrepreneurship, engineering to creative arts, the speakers opened the learners’ eyes to a world of possibilities. The sessions were filled with interactive conversations on goal setting, leadership, and life planning reminding the students that their dreams are valid and achievable.

Teachers, too, benefitted as they gained access to quality reference materials for both classroom instruction and personal growth. Parents and the wider community were encouraged by the renewed energy and focus on education. The ripple effect of improved literacy and motivation will extend far beyond the school gates.

The Words to Wisdom Project was not just about giving—it was about igniting hope. By bridging the gap between potential and opportunity, the Rotary and Rotaract Club of Bwebajja demonstrated the power of service to transform lives.

As one student expressed, “Today, I feel like I have been given wings. I can fly anywhere my dreams take me.”

This is the essence of Rotary: taking action that empowers individuals, strengthens communities, and builds a brighter future one word, one book, one learner at a time