Vashon Nursery and Primary School in Buwate, Kira Municipality, Wakiso District won a prestigious international education award from Vashon Island in Seattle, Washington, US. The accolade, presented during a colourful ceremony in Seattle, recognises schools that have demonstrated innovation, inclusivity and excellence in education.
For Vashon Primary School, this global recognition crowns a decade of visionary leadership, community involvement and faith-driven learning. Representing Uganda at the ceremony were the school foundation director Mr Henry Tumwebaze, and Ms Judith Abenawe, the Principal who were honoured as visionary leaders of Vashon Primary School in Uganda. Their recognition was celebrated not only as a personal achievement but as a symbol of Uganda’s potential in advancing education standards on a global platform.
A vision rooted in excellence
Founded 10 years ago, Vashon Primary School has earned a reputation for its holistic approach to learning. Their teaching model emphasises critical thinking, creativity and moral integrity, skills increasingly essential in today’s world. Over the years the school has drawn attention for its emphasis on practical learning. Pupils participate in science projects, environmental campaigns and cultural activities designed to make education engaging and relevant to real life.
‘Our learners are trained to think independently and act responsibly,’ said principal Abenawe. ‘We want them to leave here ready to serve society with integrity and confidence.’
Innovation and digital learning
Vashon’s international award was largely driven by its commitment to innovation. Long before the Covid-19 pandemic forced schools to adopt online learning, Vashon had already begun integrating technology into classroom instruction. Today, the school operates a blended learning system that incorporates digital tools, interactive lessons and online collaboration with partner schools abroad. Pupils access educational content through tablets and smart screens, while teachers are trained to facilitate inquiry-based learning. The digital-literacy programme aims to prepare learners for a technology-driven future and align the curriculum with Uganda’s competence-based education framework. ‘We are moving towards a future where every child in our school will be able to learn, explore and communicate using modern technology,’ said Mr Tumwebaze.
Global recognition
The global award from Seattle places Vashon Primary among a small group of African schools recognised for advancing innovative education practices. Experts say the recognition will inspire other Ugandan schools to adopt models that combine creativity, faith and community engagement. Dr Sarah Nambalirwa, an education consultant, described Vashon’s success as proof that transformation is possible when schools move beyond rote learning to embrace innovation and inclusivity. The school management is now strengthening partnerships with Chautauqua Elementary School and the Rotary Club of Vashon Island US to promote cultural exchanges, teacher mentorship and virtual learning between Ugandan and American pupils.
Nurturing sustainability
Beyond academics, the school is developing a four-acre model demonstration farm where pupils learn modern farming techniques, environmental care and food-security principles. The farm supplies fresh produce to the school’s kitchen and serves as a living classroom for science lessons.
‘Education should prepare children to solve real-world problems,’ Tumwebaze explained. ‘When learners engage in farming, they develop respect for work, innovation and sustainability.’
Faith and discipline
Meanwhile during the school’s 10th-anniversary celebrations earlier this year, the Bishop of Namirembe Diocese, Rt Rev Moses Banja, led a thanksgiving service to mark the milestone. The Bishop commended the school for integrating Christian values into education and for cultivating a culture of respect, hard work and compassion among pupils.
He reminded learners that excellence must be guided by humility and faith. During the same event, Bishop Banja launched the Vashon Boys and Girls Brigade Company, a youth movement dedicated to nurturing leadership, service and discipline through structured activities.
For the school community, the Bishop’s presence was spiritual encouragement and a reminder that academic success goes hand in hand with moral uprightness.
The power of community
One of the defining features of the school story is strong community engagement. Parents, guardians and local leaders play active roles in governance, development projects and welfare initiatives. This partnership has created a learning environment built on trust and shared responsibility.
Parents often participate in open forums where they give feedback and support improvement efforts. Education experts say this collaboration strengthens accountability and motivates learners to perform better.
Future outlook
In their remarks after returning from the US, the directors expressed appreciation to President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni and First Lady Janet Kataaha Museveni, the Minister of Education and Sports, for policies that support private education initiatives. They also extended heartfelt thanks to the generous Vashon Island community US, led by Dr Linda Barnes, for their continued partnership. The Islanders have donated scholastic materials, desktop and laptop computers and other learning resources that have enhanced the school capacity to deliver quality education.
As the school enters its second decade, its leadership remains focused on expanding infrastructure, strengthening science and technology education and deepening community partnerships locally and internationally. ‘Our goal,’ said Principal Abenawe, ‘is to raise responsible, compassionate citizens who will serve with integrity, creativity and a sense of purpose.’