Education sponsorship
Simon Peter Ogen’s return to school
Simon Peter Ogen was born on 4 March 2013. He is now a 13-year-old Primary Four learner from a rural community in Tororo, Uganda, where he lives with his mother, Adikini Florence, and five siblings.
Seven years ago, Simon’s father a boda boda rider and the family’s sole breadwinner was arrested. According to the family’s account, he was wrongly accused of murder and sentenced to 48 years in prison. His absence left Adikini with the responsibility of caring for six children without a stable provider.
With little formal education, Adikini takes daily work in other people’s gardens. She earns around 3,000 Ugandan shillings on the days work is available. That income is rarely enough to provide food, clothing, healthcare and school requirements for the whole household.
The pressure eventually forced Simon to leave school. During a ministry program in the family’s village, a member of Shining Light Uganda learned about his situation. The organization began walking with the family and provided sponsorship that enabled Simon to return to class.
Today, Simon is continuing his education with support for school fees, food, clothing, medical needs and scholastic materials. The support has eased practical pressure on the family while restoring hope that his education and future can continue.
For Simon’s family, sponsorship is more than paying a school bill. It is an expression of hope, faith and the assurance that they are not walking alone.