Oreku Primary School in Arua Shines Again Thanks to NSSF’s Education Support

Arua City, April 17, 2025 – Joy and hope filled the air today at Oreku Primary School in Arua as stakeholders gathered to officially commission a newly refurbished classroom block, thanks to the proceeds from the NSSF Kampala Hills Run 2023.

 The project, under the National Social Security Fund’s (NSSF) Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative, marks a significant step in enhancing the education landscape in the West Nile region.The renovated facility, which had long been an eyesore after being deroofed by strong winds, now stands as a symbol of renewed opportunity for both learners and teachers.

City Education Officer, Raymond Ombere, expressed heartfelt gratitude to NSSF for their timely intervention.

•  “This initiative will undoubtedly enhance the learning environment for our pupils, providing them with a safe and conducive space to grow and develop. What started as a phone call has now become a beacon of hope. This is a testament to NSSF’s commitment to improving the lives of Ugandans,” he remarked.

City Education Officer, Raymond Ombere

He added that the project has brought tangible benefits to Arua City’s education statistics, with the pupil-to-classroom ratio improving from 121:1 to 107:1.

 “The number of children without classrooms has reduced from 59,172 to 46,876, and the classroom deficit has slightly dropped from 1,154 to 1,150,” Ombere noted, calling NSSF’s intervention a “heaven-sent fortune.

”Onzima Luis, Head Teacher of Oreku Primary School, highlighted the transformative impact of the UGX 108 million renovation. “Teaching and learning have improved tremendously. Our enrolment increased from 1,474 pupils in 2024 to 1,637 in 2025. 

The Marketing and Corporate Affairs team at NSSF also helped shine a national and international spotlight on our school,” he said.

The renovation has further attracted partnerships, with the Aga Khan Foundation establishing a micro forest at the school to promote environmental education among pupils.

Onzima Luis, Head Teacher of Oreku Primary School

Patrick Ayota, Managing Director of NSSF, delivered a personal and inspiring message to the pupils. Reflecting on his own humble beginnings at Nyem Nyem Primary School in Tororo, Ayota urged the children to aim high. 

“I only started wearing shoes in Senior Three. If I could make it, so can you,” he said.

He also encouraged the children to embrace financial discipline:

 “If your parent gives you UGX 2,000, save at least UGX 500. Develop the habit of saving early.”The event, which brought together city officials, teachers, parents, and development partners, underscored the powerful impact of public-private partnerships in driving educational development.

As the refurbished classrooms begin a new chapter, the smiles on the children’s faces say it all—hope has indeed been restored at Oreku Primary School.#NSSFKlaHillsRun #InvestInEducation #AruaCityDevelopment