Credit: Divine Mugisha

Former refugee and community leader Divine Mugisha has opened up about the slow but determined journey to build a secondary school for vulnerable young people.

In a recent LinkedIn post, Mugisha reflected on how the idea, first conceived in 2023, has taken longer than expected to materialise. Her vision is to create a modern secondary school for gifted students who cannot access education due to financial challenges and limited space in existing schools.

She admits the journey has been difficult.

Over the past three years, the project has faced rejection from potential supporters, criticism about its viability, and personal struggles along the way. Despite this, Mugisha says she and her team remained committed and never considered giving up.

Early construction progress of Divine Mugisha’s school project in Dzaleka. Credit: Divine Mugisha

A major step came in February 2025 when land for the school was secured—without guaranteed funding. By January 2026, construction began with the foundation of three classrooms. However, work has stalled at the roofing stage due to lack of funds.

Even so, Mugisha remains optimistic.

She says the team is aiming to enrol its first 40 students by September, focusing on those currently out of school because of financial barriers and overcrowding.

The project builds on her broader work through the Supportive Pillar Organisation, a refugee-led initiative she founded to improve access to education. Since its establishment, the organisation has supported dozens of students with school fees, materials, and mentorship, helping them stay in school despite difficult conditions.

Early construction progress of Divine Mugisha’s school project in Dzaleka. Credit: Divine Mugisha

Her efforts have also extended to mental health support, recognising the emotional challenges faced by young people growing up in displacement.

Mugisha’s latest update highlights both the challenges and determination behind community-led change. While funding remains a hurdle, she has thanked those who have supported the initiative so far and continues to call for more backing to bring the project to completion.

If realised, the school could provide a second chance to young people who might otherwise remain locked out of education.