On 27th January 2011 our school had the pleasure and privilege to host an unusual quest. Robert Mutegeki, a priest from Uganda, who was visiting Poland with a series of presentations regarding African issues, agreed to hold a meeting with students and teachers of our school.
His visit gave as the opportunity to become more sensitive to many crucial issues troubling African people, such as HIV and AIDS disease, widespread poverty and limited access to education.
Reverend Robert Mutegeki turned out to be a man of great charisma and personal charm. He told us about Uganda and the way of life of its people. His presentation was accompanied by vivid slides showing Ugandan wildlife, cities, villages, landscapes and most of all the life of ordinary folks in Uganda.
Mr. Mutegeki put emphasis to the issue of AIDS and millions of orphans, who were left alone after their parents had been taken away by the disease. It has been estimated there are about 2 million orphans in Uganda. The children have nobody to look after them, no shelters, no everyday facilities that our society takes for granted every day. They have limited access to education and those lucky ones who may attend the classes learn in groups of 50, 100 or even 200 pupils.
Reverend Mutegeki appealed to everyone to support his kinsmen and participate in a project called “Distance Adoption”. The project means giving a child or youth in particularly difficult conditions the possibility of growing up in his own country, respecting his culture and human dignity. It means food, medicines, schooling, a family, the love from far away persons who are concerned with his growth and to participate to his life, exchanging letters, drawings and experiences. The only thing we need to do is express willingness to participate and contribute €25 a month.
Those willing to learn more on Distance Adoption and Uganda may visit the following websites:
http://www.statehouse.go.ug
The meeting with the Reverend was also an excellent opportunity for our students to practice their language skills and gain some hands-on linguistic experience.
We would like to express our gratitude to Reverend Robert Mutegeki for making time to meet us and share his experience and knowledge. THANK YOU!
