Journey to University: Shaban

I am Shaban Magezi, a 2026 Intern at Action in Africa and a proud beneficiary of the Secondary Scholarship Program from Senior One through Senior Six. Having offered PCB (Physics, Chemistry, and Biology) combination at Riverside High School, I am now transitioning toward my goal of studying Medicine and Surgery at Kampala International University.

My ultimate mission is to become a surgeon who blends clinical excellence with a deep commitment to my roots. I intend to use my medical training as a tool for social transformation, ensuring that my family and the wider community have access to the quality healthcare they deserve. 

I grew up with my grandparents in Fort Portal village. During the Primary Seven vacation, I shifted to my father’s place in Kampala to look for casual work because my grandparents couldn’t afford to take me to Secondary level. Therefore, the only option was to start working. I had sat at home for over one year without studying.

After settling in Nakuwadde, with time, I learned about an organization called Action in Africa. I started engaging in programs at The Center, which expanded my chances to grab the opportunity for Secondary Scholarship in 2019.  Because of the Secondary Scholarship, I have managed to study for free from Senior One up to Senior Six. There was a time when finishing Senior Four felt like an impossible dream, something far beyond my reach. But now all my thoughts stand by joining medical school, a transformation I never imagined. 

Trust me, I had lost hope, my goals, ambitions, and prospects were sabotaged due to financial constraints, but now I am on my way to join the Internship Program at The Center. 

Additionally, I have improved my English proficiency, ICT skills, and other life skills trained to us during the holiday program, like career paths, making dustbins from waste bottles, and liquid soap, which can be used to gain some money.  If I had no opportunity for a Secondary scholarship, I am very sure I would be struggling to sustain my life. 

I can finally see a clear path to my future. Thank you, Action in Africa, for restoring my ambitions and giving me the platform to pursue the goals I once thought were out of reach.