Here’s what you should be aware of:
- In 2023, his father, David Wandera, passed away after he was struck by a vehicle on Jinja Road in Busia Town.
Francis Wandera, an ambitious Ugandan student, has moved one step nearer to realizing his long-held ambition of becoming a physician following his achievement of grades B-A-B in Biology, Chemistry, and Mathematics during the 2024 Uganda Advanced Certificate of Education (UACE) examinations.
Wandera, aspiring to pursue Human Medicine at Makerere University, has encountered significant personal challenges, such as the heartbreaking death of his father.
In 2023, his father, David Wandera, passed away after being struck by a vehicle on Jinja Road in Busia Town. Working as a construction laborer and taking up temporary jobs, he strived to support his household and held education in high regard.
My spouse insisted that all our offspring should pursue their studies for a brighter future," stated the student's mother, Betty Missnya, who has supported her family through bakingchapatis and doughnuts. Thanks to a scholarship from Busia Trust School, Wandera successfully completed his secondary education.
A father’s determination
Wandera remembered when his dad stood up to a school gatekeeper who prevented him from entering the grounds at 5 a.m.
"Our house was merely a short distance from the school, and I typically arrived early. However, one day, the guard halted me, mentioning it was still too soon," he explained.
“The student noted that although their father wasn’t aggressive, he stressed the significance of education for their family.”
Benjamin Oguttu, who serves as the deputy headteacher at Busia Trust School, verified the occurrence and mentioned that their policy does not permit day students to be present so promptly.
Oguttu stated, "We were informed that a parent tried to challenge the guard when their child wasn't permitted entrance." The student consistently arrived at 5 a.m., which was before the authorized time.
Against the odds
In spite of facing numerous challenges, Wandera has stayed committed to achieving his educational objectives. Scoring 11 points on the Primary Leaving Examination (PLE), he received a partial scholarship to attend Busia Trust School.
Now, with strong UACE results, he is optimistic about his chances of joining Makerere University’s medical program.
"I've always aspired to be a doctor, and I'm hopeful about achieving this," Wandera stated.
His narrative mirrors the challenges and fortitude of numerous Ugandan students pursuing advanced studies amid economic and individual hurdles.
More tales from the UACE 2024 outcomes:
UACE 2024 results: Uneb calls on the government to reinforce STEM education.
UACE 2024 results: As the number of candidates increases, performance declines.
Females surpass males in the UACE 2024 exams.
UACE 2024: Results from 38 exam centers have been held back
Every inmate at Luzira passed the 2024 UACE exam. s
