About Secondary Level Sponsorship


 

 

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What is the Secondary Level (S1-S6)?

While nearly 90% of all Ugandan children attend some level of primary school, only 53% actually complete it. Out of those who are able to make it through their primary schooling, less than half continue on to secondary school or what we call high school.

Lower Secondary - "O" (Ordinary) Level -S1, S2, S3 & S4

The first phase of secondary academic education takes 4 years, at the end of which students must pass their O-Level exams before proceeding further to A-level. If they don't pass on to A- level, they may attend a vocational school or a technical college for 2-3 years instead.

Upper Secondary - "A" (Advanced) Level - S5 & S6

A successful A-Level pass opens up the possibility of tertiary education (university) for the lucky few who make it this far.

What does it cost and what does it provide?

The price to sponsor a Secondary School students (grades S1-S6) is $55/month or $660/year.

This level is where students are able to dive deep into their educational interests. They learn diverse subjects from skilled teachers, attend labs & conferences, and receive additional resources like scholastic materials & evening tutoring.

Secondary School is a unique program where each year the costs and needs may fluctuate slightly based on the student needs and requirements of the school. The first three years of the secondary program are less intensive (S1, S2, and S3) and students can remain in the day program (while still taking advantage of extra preps and programs before and after school), while the final three years (S4, S5, and S6) require student boarding in order for them to have the best chance of success.

 
The cost of boarding materials and the boarding program is quite high and beyond what many sponsors may feel comfortable paying. As such, we’ve opted for a pricing model that is the average of all six years so as to make secondary sponsorship “within reach” for all years and not have to worry as much about a student losing their sponsor during some of the most critical years of their education. This allows a small reserve to be built up in the first three years that is then fully depleted in the final three years, without having to return to you every few years asking for a price increase. 

 

What does my sponsorship provide for a primary student?

  • Tuition & Exam Fees: Ensures uninterrupted enrollment through all secondary levels.

  • Daily School Lunch: For many students, this is the most reliable, nutrient-dense meal of the day.

  • School Uniforms & Shoes: A mandatory requirement for attending school in Uganda that many families cannot afford.

  • Boarding Fees/Supplies (S4-S6): Pays for a student to stay at school during the academic year, plus essential living materials.

  • Medical Care & Mentorship: Access to emergency healthcare, yearly new mosquito nets, and faith-centered guidance from local staff and Lutheran pastors.

Can I still communicate with my secondary student?

Yes! Sponsors often worry they are just sending money into a black hole. We address this directly by outlining the communication cycle.
  • Sponsorship Packets: Twice a year, Hearts & Hope hand-delivers personalized connection packets from you directly to your student on our mission trips. Filled with your letters, family photos, candy, toys, and school supplies, these packages are treasured by the children as a beautiful reminder of your love and encouragement.
  • Twice-a-Year Updates: Receive school updates after each trip, fresh photos, and handwritten letters from your student. 
  • Mission Trips: We take mission trips 2x per year in February and June, where you have the opportunity to meet your student face to face!

What happens the moment I click 'Sponsor'?"

The moment you choose to partner with a student, we don't just send you a receipt. We send a piece of Uganda straight to your mailbox. Within two weeks of beginning your sponsorship, you will receive a physical Sponsorship Welcome Packet to help you get to know your student.

Your student will be personally notified by our Ugandan staff, who will present them with a certificate welcoming them to the program and introducing them to you. We will enroll them in school as quickly as possible, ensuring they receive all the essential supplies they need to start learning right away.


 

See students waiting for you to become their sponsor!