For more than 15 years, the Mwebaza Foundation, an education organization, has been instrumental in creating meaningful partnerships between schools in Colorado and Uganda. Since its inception, the Foundation has expanded to multiple schools in St. Vrain Valley and other districts across Colorado. What began as a small program at Niwot Elementary has grown into a global network of schools committed to cross-cultural education.
Under the guidance of former St. Vrain teacher, Hillari Hansen, Mwebaza’s School Development Director, the Mwebaza Foundation has provided valuable opportunities for students to learn about different cultures, global citizenship, and the importance of social and environmental responsibility. Through programs such as school clubs, cross cultural learning activities, fundraisers, video chats, and global awareness, the Foundation continues to broaden students’ perspectives.
The Niwot Elementary Mwebaza Club meetings, which Hansen co-leads with former Niwot Elementary teacher and Mwebaza board member, Dale Peterson, include a teaching component and a game or project inspired by students in Uganda. “We engage in a variety of activities focused on exploring different cultures, celebrating our similarities and differences, and participating in crafts, games, and cooking with the focus on global awareness,” explained Hansen. “Earlier this year, we prepared traditional Ugandan meals, allowing students to learn about the cultural significance of plantains and bananas and how they’re used in Uganda.”
At a recent club meeting, students began making jump ropes out of plastic bags. This activity was taught to them by students in Uganda, demonstrating their resourcefulness in making items from found objects such as plastic bags and bottle tops. Many of the students who joined the Mwebaza Club expressed their enthusiasm for the variety of interesting things they are able to create. “My favorite part is making crafts but I like working with others and communicating with the younger children too,” said fifth-grader Maia Spannring.
Students also rehearsed a song at their meeting that included words in English and Luganda. They will perform the song for their peers at Mwebaza Primary School in Uganda during the annual Mwebaza Day Celebration on March 5. “The event, which is conducted on Google Meet, takes place in the evening in Uganda and in the morning in Niwot, brings together students from both sides of the world for a virtual exchange of music, dance, conversation, and learning,” shared Peterson. “It’s an opportunity for students to connect with their peers across continents, learn about each other, and establish lasting friendships.”
Additionally, the schools in Colorado participate in lessons related to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. “For instance, when studying solar energy, we construct solar ovens, and when learning about access to clean water, we create water filters. Our counterparts in Uganda engage in similar projects, so we learn from each other,” said Peterson.
One of the highlights for Hansen and Peterson are their regular trips to Uganda. During these visits, they work with schools and students to bring cross-cultural learning activities to their Uganda partners, share ideas, photos, information, and crafts created by Colorado and Ugandan students. “The excitement of the children, their curiosity about our projects and learning activities, and the bonds formed are incredibly meaningful,” shared Hansen. Some of Peterson’s favorite memories are the in-between moments when the children seek engagement and attention. “Singing songs like “Tooty Ta” with them, which have fun movements, brings so much happiness. It’s amazing to see the universal joy in kids, whether in Uganda or here in Niwot; they all love similar things.”