Education without Barriers: A Brighter Future

Caption: “The solar lights have been a great game changer for our school. Students can now study well into the evening without worrying about the power going out. We have seen a remarkable improvement in their enthusiasm for learning”. -Mr. Bwayo Dominic, Headteacher of Bumwalye Primary School

In areas without consistent access to electricity, achieving an undisrupted education can be challenging. When electricity is scarce, even basic study tasks become obstacles. Students and teachers in the Bududa, Namisindwa, and Manafwa districts in Uganda express that constant outages and limited access to electricity at home have made it difficult to study in the evening, affecting academic performance and preparation for critical exams to continue their education. As a response, Unite to Light partnered with Arlington Academy of Hope Uganda to distribute 2,000 solar Luke Lights to 38 schools in these districts, aiming to bring students sustainable and affordable lighting, so they can study, learn, and grow without the barrier of darkness. ​

In partnership with the Arlington Academy of Hope Uganda, it was determined solar light distribution is especially timely for grade seven students preparing for their national exams in November. Passing these exams at a certain level, grants students the ability to progress in their education, setting them up for a brighter future. Our Luke Lights distribution ensured students could get accustomed to their lights, using them to build effective study habits and maximize their potential on the upcoming exams. 

Beyond our goals of academic support, the lights also promote health and safety for students. Increased use of solar powered Luke Lights has decreased reliance on kerosene lamps and candles for nighttime study, which pose hazards like eye strain, respiratory issues, and fire risks. Moreover, by eliminating the need for expensive fuel or batteries, the solar lights provide a sustainable, uninterrupted light source that students and families can depend on. Lights have also helped reduce absenteeism, as students, especially girls, no longer fear walking in the darkness during their long commutes to and from school; which might be as much as three miles, each direction. As a result, they are attending school more regularly. Tracy, a student at Bukhaukha Primary School, shared, “Before we got the solar lights, it was very difficult to read at night. Now, I can finish my homework and study from home without any problems. I feel more confident about my studies”.

Expanding Learning Opportunities 

The impact of these solar lights reaches far beyond individual students. Schools now are able to host productive evening study sessions, allowing students extra hours to review material, complete homework, and collaborate in group discussions. With minimized disruptions and fear of walking home in the dark, these study sessions help to not only increase educational success but also foster a greater sense of community and encouragement among students. Through this initiative with REACH for Uganda and our solar lights, we hope to expand educational opportunities by lighting the world and empowering students to reach their full academic potential. 

To get involved or learn more about our work with REACH for Uganda and other projects through the power of light, please visit or continue to explore our website. Let’s change a life and light the world, one light at a time.

Lillian Nakami from Manyiya Primary School