Solar Energy transforming education in Kilulu-Mbale

In the rolling hills of Mbale District, Uganda, Good Journey Nursery and Primary School is experiencing a significant transformation powered by solar energy. Local Council I Chairperson Simon Malenje and school manager Grace Kayegi are leading efforts to provide quality education to over 300 children, many from disadvantaged backgrounds.

The school, founded in 2016, previously struggled with unreliable grid electricity, facing power outages up to three times a week, often lasting over six hours. These blackouts disrupted learning, making evening study sessions and early morning preparation classes inconsistent, particularly impacting Primary Seven candidates preparing for crucial examinations. The lack of dependable lighting also stalled plans for a boarding section due to safety concerns.

"The unstable electricity affected not only study schedules but also enrolment," explained Kayegi. "Learners often had to return home early, limiting their learning hours. Our candidates suffered most because they did not get enough time to read."

Seeking a sustainable solution, Malenje invested in the Sun King Home Plus Pro solar system. This system, equipped with high-efficiency lights and a long-lasting battery, now powers classrooms throughout the night, allowing pupils uninterrupted study time. The investment was facilitated by the Results-Based Financing (RBF) Program, a collaboration between Equity Bank Uganda, Energizing Development (EnDev) Uganda, and GIZ. This program incentivizes solar suppliers, making high-quality renewable energy products more accessible and affordable for underserved communities.

The solar solution was installed just weeks before the 2025 national examinations, immediately enhancing the learning environment. This initiative exemplifies how renewable energy can overcome infrastructure challenges and expand access to education in rural areas.

“

The unstable electricity affected not only study schedules but also enrolment. Learners often had to return home early, limiting their learning hours. Our candidates suffered most because they did not get enough time to read.