Journey to University: Kevin
Kevin Mwebaze grew up with his father, Kasumba Ivan, who used to wake up early for work. For that reason, no one could advise, impart, or teach him good morals. He had ill manners of all kinds—escaping from school, fighting, being stubborn, and acting as a cheerleader for disorderly students at Victorious Junior School, a neighbor to the AIA Center where he began his primary education. But ever since he joined AIA, he has undergone moral development, been nurtured to associate with his peers, and his behavior has changed. “Currently, when I hope to behave contrary to the societal setting, I tell my heart, ‘Don’t—you will embarrass your family, Action in Africa,’” said Kevin. He revealed that Action in Africa did not only support his education but also changed his behavior.
Much as he was stubborn, he was also a good performer in class, which strengthened his relationship with teachers—especially Teacher Hellen, who was the school head. When a chance for AIA came, he was one of the students recommended for AIA’s Secondary Scholarship in Senior One at Riverside High School, Mbazzi, in 2018. Before, he used to take AIA PPP sessions for granted, focusing on porridge, snacks, and playing at The Center like the other kids, until he was sent home several times for school fees. Yet, five other siblings also needed to go to school. “I always saw how our father struggled to educate us and pay rent,” said Kevin. Then he realized the importance of Action in Africa in his life, and he woke up and turned into a serious man.
With great happiness, he was accepted into our Internship Program, adding that it was a hard path, one he had prayed for. He said it felt like a miracle that dressed him and declared him as one of the interns of 2025. After passing through, he accepted that he had achieved his goal of becoming a lawyer to boost his critical thinking and desire for justice. He is looking forward to joining the best private university in Uganda—Kampala International University—in August 2025 after four months of his internship training at The Center.
By the time he started his internship, Kevin had little experience with computers. But as of now, he can type at a fair speed, manage emails, use Google Drive, search engines, Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, and other relevant computer applications. In addition to ICT, he has gained social skills since The Center is a convergence of kids, parents, and visitors. He’s developed public speaking skills through programs at The Center that require communicating with large numbers of kids and students, research skills through ICT-related applications and market surveys, confidence, and a deeper understanding of his personality. “I confirm that for now, I am ready to face new challenges and opportunities out there at the university.”
Besides the skills, he is very appreciative of the monthly stipend, which has enabled him to support his siblings with basic scholastic materials as they return to school and to sustain his personal needs without burdening his parents.
Lastly, he appreciated Teacher Hellen, who recommended him to Action in Africa despite all the ill manners and stubbornness he had exhibited. The teacher gave him a second chance. “If she had personal anger, she would have hesitated to introduce me. But she saw my need for support. I am still passionate and eager to study to make her proud. My peers resorted to boda boda (moped) riding, others married and had children. But I am blessed and lucky to still be in school. I promise to continue chasing my dream until I win with a Bachelor's degree in Law. I will never forget Teacher Hellen and Action in Africa in my entire life.”
