Kindergarten Graduation is a Time of Great Celebration!

Do you hear that? It sounds like… drums? And whooping? … and many, many marching footsteps? Whatever could it be? Why, it’s a parade! It’s an extravagant celebration! Here at New Life Primary School in Northern Uganda, there is a rowdy, full-fledged palooza taking place in honor of our brand new school’s first graduating kindergarten class.

You read it correctly the first time: Kindergarten. This may not seem like a big deal, but, in Uganda, kindergarten graduation is the only graduation that is celebrated – not elementary school; not middle school; no, not even high school. This might be incomprehensible to some of us, but these children may not only be the first in their family to attend school of any kind; they may also be the first to learn to read or write. So this is a cause for celebration indeed.

Proud parents gather here to rejoice for their children that have been given an opportunity that they never had themselves. They holler and sing; they dance and hoist their children upon their shoulders. Teachers are beaming and resplendent in their robes. Even a police band attends to commend the children and to lead the marching procession, complete with drums and musical instruments.

The children recite memory verses and perform skits. The district officials in attendance are amazed at how quickly these children have learned English. The joy is palpable. Everyone present can feel the tangible presence of God and how He has shined His face upon these children.

Take 15 seconds to see the gladness of one mom and dad!