Rwenzori Association of Parents of Children with Disabilities
The Rwenzori Association of Parents of Children with Disabilities (RAPCD) was founded in 2004 by Maali Wilson.
We have worked with RAPCD since it established its primary school for children with disabilities in 2010. From small beginnings, it continues to expand and now has over 140 pupils. It caters for pupils who are deaf, blind or have other disabilities such as cerebral palsy and Down's Syndrome.
As it is usual practice for pupils to pay school fees in Uganda, RAPCD has begun an income generating scheme. Families in need of financial assistance are given a duck and the ducklings are sold. In addition, one duckling is returned to the project to benefit another family.
The success of the primary school has led to the development of a secondary school nearby so pupils can continue their education. In 2017, St Agnes secondary school opened with just a few rooms allowing pupils to complete their learning and exams. Accomplish is supporting the construction of the remaining buildings.
RAPCD also conducts community outreaches to find children with disabilities and help their families, and it runs parent support groups.
The reputation of the school and its outreach work has changed people's attitudes towards disability and transformed the lives of children in the area.
Jockim
Jockim, aged 13, was born with cerebral palsy and finds it difficult initiating speech. He has been attending RAPCD's primary school for five years and is making great progress.
