A 21-year-old visually impaired student from Ibanda Municipality is uncertain about his chances of joining university despite excelling in his recent national examinations.
Possiano Tugumisirize, a resident of Kigando Cell in Nyakatokye Ward, is struggling to raise tuition fees following the death of his father in 2022.
Tugumisirize scored 17 points in the Uganda Advanced Certificate of Education (UACE) examinations at Hornby Secondary School in Kabale District—a performance that qualifies him for university admission. However, his dream of pursuing higher education now hangs in the balance due to financial constraints at home.
“I have worked hard throughout my education, but raising school fees has always been a challenge,” Tugumisirize said. “After losing my father, the situation became worse. I fear I may not be able to continue with my studies despite qualifying.”
He expressed a strong desire to study law at Makerere University, a goal he says has motivated him to persevere despite the odds.
“My dream is to become a lawyer so that I can advocate for people with disabilities and other vulnerable groups in society,” he added.
His mother, Roseline Karugaga, says the family is overwhelmed by financial pressure as she struggles to provide for Tugumisirize and his siblings. She noted that meeting basic needs alone has become difficult, leaving little hope of raising university tuition.
“I am doing everything possible to support my children, but the situation is beyond my capacity,” Karugaga said. “I appeal to well-wishers, government, and organizations to come to my son’s aid so that he can achieve his dream.”
Local leaders have also raised concern about Tugumisirize’s situation, calling for urgent intervention to support bright but disadvantaged students in the community. Kagongo Division Chairperson Adrian Kweyamba emphasized the need for collective responsibility.
“This young man has demonstrated determination and academic ability despite his condition and challenges,” Kweyamba said. “I call upon government and non-governmental organizations to step in and support him in any way possible.”
Education stakeholders argue that Tugumisirize’s case reflects the broader challenges faced by students from vulnerable backgrounds, particularly those living with disabilities. They stress the importance of targeted support to ensure equal access to education.
As Tugumisirize awaits his next step, his story highlights both the resilience of determined students and the urgent need for stronger support systems to ensure that no qualified learner is left behind due to financial hardship.