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The Schools of the Abayudaya

Hadassah Primary School and Semei Kakungulu High School, central institutions established by the Abayudaya community, urgently need your help. Without sustainable support, their doors risk permanent closure, threatening the community's future and the preservation of their unique Jewish-Ugandan heritage.

Hadassah Primary School

Hadassah Primary School, located near Mbale in eastern Uganda, is a beacon of education, inclusivity and cultural preservation for young students. This school serves as a beacon of learning and interfaith cooperation. It reflects the community's deep commitment to nurturing both academic excellence and cultural understanding.

Key Highlights

Blended Curriculum: Combines essential secular education -- mathematics, science, social studies -- with Jewish teachings, Hebrew language skills, and Torah study. This dual focus fosters a strong sense of identity while equipping students with skills to thrive in the modern world.

Inclusive Environment: Welcomes students from diverse religious backgrounds, fostering mutual respect, tolerance, and peaceful coexistence. This interfaith environment encourages students to develop mutual respect and empathy, creating a microcosm of harmony that reflects the community's values of coexistence.

Cultural Expression: Music and cultural activities incorporate traditional Ugandan instruments with Jewish liturgical songs, enriching students' experiences. This approach not only enhances their learning but also helps to preserve the cultural heritage of the Abayudaya.

Community Involvement: Strong engagment from parents and local leaders supports students' holistic growth beyond academics.

Overall, Hadassah Primary School is more than just an educational institution—it is a symbol of resilience, inclusivity, and the Abayudaya community’s dedication to fostering a brighter future. Through its teachings and values, it continues to inspire not only its students but also the broader society around it.

Challenges Facing Hadassah Primary School

Severe financial pressures threaten basic operational capabilities.
Immediate funding is needed to ensure continued access to education and preservation of community traditions.

Semei Kakungulu
High School

Semei Kakungulu High School, named after the founder of the Abayudaya community, serves older students, preparing them academically and spiritually to succeed in a modern, diverse world. This institution embodies the community's commitment to education, tradition, and social cohesion.

Key Highlights

Advanced Education: Offers rigorous academic instruction alongside advanced Jewish studies, ensuring students graduate prepared for higher education and meaningful careers. Students study subjects like mathematics, biology, chemistry, physics, history, and geography, alongside Jewish studies. The Jewish studies curriculum includes Torah readings, Hebrew language instruction, and discussions about Jewish ethics and traditions. This dual focus ensures that students are both academically prepared for future opportunities and deeply rooted in their cultural and religious heritage.

Cultural Heritage: Strong emphasis on Jewish traditions and values, reinforcing cultural identity and community pride.

Inclusive Environment: One of the school's most remarkable aspects is its inclusivity. While it was established by the Abayudaya, the school welcomes students of various faiths, including Christians and Muslims. This interfaith environment fosters understanding and respect among young people, reflecting the community's commitment to peaceful coexistence. The diversity of the student body also enriches classroom discussions, encouraging a broader perspective on societal issues

Leadership Development: Dedicated faculty and community leaders mentor students, cultivating strong moral character and leadership skills.

Challenges Facing Semei Kakungulu High School

Urgent need for sustainable financial support to continue operations.
Immediate risk of closure without ongoing contributions.

Your Impact Matters

Your generous support directly secures:

Operational stability for these vital schools

Continuation of critical educational and cultural programs

Preservation of Abayudaya's vibrant Jewish-Ugandan heritage

Educational and personal development opportunities for students

Hadassah Primary School and Semei Kakungulu High School are essential to the Abayudaya community's identity and survival. Join us to ensure these institutions not only survive but thrive.

ACT NOW - Help Save Our Schools

Donate Now to Keep Jewish Education Alive in Uganda.