Gulu, Uganda: At least 49 students, comprising returnees and children born in captivity, graduated from Terra Renaissance, a non-profit organization supporting former child soldiers with education and vocational rehabilitation in Northern Uganda.
Terra Renaissance, which officially began operations in Uganda in 2006, focuses on equipping vulnerable individuals with life skills to rebuild their futures. During the 12th graduation ceremony held in Gulu, the beneficiaries received training in carpentry and joinery, fashion, and design.
Shingo Ogawa, Director of Terra Renaissance, said the initiative has graduated more than 450 students since its inception. He emphasized that the organization’s mission is to empower former child soldiers and war-affected youth to become self-sufficient, break cycles of poverty, and reintegrate into society with dignity.
“This graduation is not the end. We will continue supporting these young people as they establish their businesses. We shall provide them with tools, mentorship, and follow-up to ensure success,” Ogawa said.
Gulu City Education Officer Richard Ilwenyo urged the graduates to embrace discipline, hard work, and determination, warning that laziness would hinder their progress.
“You must remain focused and avoid distractions. You have a second chance—use it well. Diversify by engaging in agriculture so you can plan for your families and attain financial stability,” he advised.
Otema Jimmy, a staff member at Terra Renaissance, told the graduates that life outside the organization requires grit and perseverance.
“As you step into this new chapter of your lives, remember that your future is not defined by your past, but by the strength of your resolve and the effort you put into every new day,” Otema said.
He encouraged graduates to support each other and use their new skills to rebuild their lives and serve their families, saying, “You must leave the bush behind and move forward as healed individuals.”
Mary Achomo, a parent who attended the ceremony, highlighted challenges faced by families receiving their children back after captivity. She said some families sold off land during their children’s absence, fearing their return would ignite property disputes.
“We are thankful to Terra Renaissance because without them, these children would have nowhere to go. They have given our children a second life,” Achomo said.
The graduation comes months after the government repatriated 150 former Lord’s Resistance Army (LRA) fighters and their families from the Central African Republic. Among them were 144 individuals who have been undergoing rehabilitation since December last year under the Ministry of Defence program.
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