Joseph Sentagu's Story
The joyous faces of KIMS children, often hide heart-breaking stories of hopelessness, shame and neglect.
Joseph has Downs Syndrome and was abandoned by his parents when he was born, as they were unable to cope with the shame and stigma associated with disability. When he was taken to school, the teachers said he was ‘unteachable’. Faced with rejection and a lack of parental love, Joseph was left to sit day after day, in the dirt outside his house, with little stimulation or engagement with the world around him.
When Joseph, arrived at KIMS in October 2020, he was a silent, sullen and introverted boy, devoid of emotion. The nurturing environment of the school’s Special Support Centre, has allowed Joseph to grow and he is a very different child today. He is learning to count, to read and write and make friends and is beginning to realise his potential as a learner and a person.
Joseph is just one of many children – with your support KIMS could educate more children like Joseph.
Joseph Byaruhanga's Journey Towards Belonging
Joseph is a bright 9-year-old boy from rural Western Uganda living with Spina Bifida. His story is one of rejection transformed by courage, resilience, and hope.
Three primary schools turned Joseph away due to his wheelchair use and incontinence. Each attempt lasted less than a term, yet Joseph desperately wanted to learn.
In September 2023, Kyaninga Inclusive Model School (KIMS) welcomed him. Joseph and his parents were uncertain at first—could this time be different?
His incontinence created challenging classroom conditions. Without affordable diapers, accidents brought shame and isolation, making friendships seem impossible.
The Holistic Solution
KIMS provided comprehensive support: occupational therapists taught Joseph’s parents morning enema techniques, transforming his daily experience. KCDC Mobility created a custom bamboo wheelchair for him.
Eighteen months later, Joseph’s shyness has given way to friendship, his introversion to active learning. His journey at KIMS continues, marked by newfound joy, belonging, and the promise of a transformed life.
