Anichan Middy Mary
Anichan Middy Mary aged 26yrs old, from Nebbi district, pursued a Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science at Ndejje University. In the beginning, life was hard, and it’s been a long journey for me. “Dad abandoned us, with mummy in a rented house. He never paid our fees. We lived on one meal a day. I was very young, at the time, and in lower primary. Before leaving, daddy would drink, get drunk and return to quarrel and fight with mummy, until he finally disappeared.”
When he left, Mummy started a small business, selling fish in the nearby market in order to fend for our basic needs, in addition to paying school fees. “I have seen my mother go through hard times doing this business in order to provide for us.” At a certain point, circumstances were almost unbearable and my mum could not manage to pay school fees, especially when I joined ‘A’ level. The situation got completely out of hand, expenses were too high and she could not afford it anymore. “I tried to do my best in school so as to get a bursary and reduce the school fees burden but things didn’t work out.” As a result, I started coaching students in science subjects including physics and Mathematics, to earn money. I saved whatever small money I got to raise my school fees, and support my mum and family.
Due to increased challenges in having my fees paid, in S.6, the church fundraised to pay my UNEB examination registration fees. I passed my exams, and upon receiving the results, I had no hope that I would further my education. There was no way I could join university due to our financial situation. My only hope was a miracle from God.
When FAWE Uganda advertised the – MTN Foundation scholarship, I applied for it and prayed so hard that I would be selected. “Miraculously, when I received a call that I was awarded the scholarship, I was in awe! Mummy and I cried tears of joy and celebrated this good news…. It was truly a miracle, and a dream come true.”
I was admitted to Ndejje University for a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, majoring in Computer repairs, maintenance and software development. When I completed my studies, I now give back to my community by supporting other vulnerable girls to access education, as FAWE Uganda and MTN foundation reinstated hope in me.
Since I pursued Computer Science, I am now an IT specialist in Systems Administration working with the ICT Department of a great institution.
During my free time, I volunteer in the community through teaching at my former school. I am also a role model to students and encourage fellow girls to pursue science-related subjects and careers.
I thank FAWE Uganda and the MTN Foundation for giving me an opportunity for further studies, putting smiles on my face and my mother’s face, bringing light to my life, and family, and making my dream a reality.
I look forward to furthering my studies and career.
God Bless You FAWE UGANDA.