Back To School Project (Ongoing)

Back to School Project – Nyamalango Primary School, Mwanza

Implemented by African Child Comforters Organization (ACCO) The Back to School Project is a flagship initiative of African Child Comforters Organization (ACCO), designed to ensure that children from vulnerable backgrounds can return to school with dignity, confidence, and the tools they need to succeed academically. The project was implemented at Nyamalango Primary School in Mwanza, emphasizing inclusive education and support for learners with special needs.

Project Background and Rationale
Education is a fundamental right and the cornerstone of personal and community development. However, for many children in underserved communities, the cost of school essentials—including uniforms, shoes, bags, and learning materials—creates a significant barrier to access and attendance. Children with special needs are especially vulnerable to exclusion due to limited supportive structures and stigma.

In response to this challenge, ACCO initiated the Back to School Project to provide targeted support that enables children to begin the academic year prepared, included, and empowered.

Objectives
The Back to School Project seeks to:

Remove financial barriers to education by providing essential school supplies for vulnerable students.
Promote inclusive education by ensuring children with special needs have the resources and support to participate fully. Boost confidence and self-esteem among students through dignified school readiness.
Engage community partners to strengthen local ownership and sustainability of educational support efforts. Implementation Approach.

The Back to School Project was implemented through a structured and collaborative process:

1. Needs Assessment ACCO conducted a school-based needs assessment in collaboration with Nyamalango Primary School leadership to identify learners most in need, including students facing financial hardship and those with special needs.

2. Resource Mobilization ACCO mobilized support from partners, community members, and donors to raise funds and in-kind contributions. These resources were allocated to purchase: School uniforms Shoes School bags Exercise books Pens and pencils

3. Procurement and Quality Assurance All essential items were procured transparently and locally where possible, ensuring quality and value for money. Students’ sizes and preferences were confirmed to guarantee proper fit and comfort.

4. Handover Ceremony The project culminated in a formal handover event at Nyamalango Primary School, where ACCO team members, school leadership, and community stakeholders participated in distributing the uniforms and learning materials. Special recognition was given to learners with special needs to ensure visibility and inclusion.

Key Achievements
Five (5) students were supported with full school uniforms, shoes, and essential supplies.
All beneficiaries included learners with special needs, ensuring equitable access.
Strengthened relationships between ACCO, school leadership, parents, and community partners. Reinforced the importance of inclusive education as a core principle of child development and social protection.