Projects & Programs
What we do at Dongriin Foundation
MENTORSHIP
We believe in the power of mentorship to transform lives and shape a brighter future. We aim to empower and support students, especially girls, in their educational journeys. Our mentors serve as role models fostering a safe space for students to discuss challenges, explore interests and nurture talents. They offer academic support, career guidance and personal development insights through sharing their stories and one-on-one mentorship. Many of our mentors are current university students and graduates.
Approach
One-on-One Mentorship
Students are paired with dedicated mentors who engage in meetings to discuss challenges, set goals and explore opportunities. This is essential for high school and post-secondary students.
Academic Support
Some of our mentors are tutors who assist students with academic studies, clarify concepts and offer guidance on study techniques and time management.
Youth Engagement
Mentees are encouraged to actively engage in community service projects, volunteering at local schools. We aim to promote social responsibility and create a sense of belonging.
School Outreaches
We organize general mentorship at different schools annually within the refugee camps. We also distribute educational resources such as exercise books, stationery and age-appropriate reading materials during our school outreaches.
DONGRIIN LIBRARY
We aim to establish a comprehensive library within the refugee camp to address the lack of access to quality books and educational resources. This project will provide students, teachers and community members with a welcoming space filled with educational materials suitable for all ages and interests. We aim to promote a love for reading and learning, foster personal growth and support educational initiatives.
Approach
Library Setup
We will create a dedicated space equipped with a diverse collection of books catering to different age groups and interests
Book pooling
We will continuously engage the community, educators and volunteers in acquiring and curating books
Reading programs
We will organize reading clubs at different schools that the library serves to promote a love for reading and literature among students.
Reads of the Year
The department of Dongriin Library challenges Dongriinians and Dongriinees to read chosen non-academic books a year, a culture that existed among the co-founders.
BURSARIES AND SCHOLARSHIPS
Through lobbying for bursaries and sponsorships and with the ultimate goal of offering scholarships, we strive to break down financial barriers and empower students to pursue their educational needs. We collaborate with organizations, institutions and individuals to secure sponsorships and bursaries. Still, we aspire to establish our own sustainable scholarship fund within the foundation with support from our partners and donors.
Approach
Lobbying and advocacy
Creating Awareness of Opportunities and Resources
Application Assistance
Impact Monitoring and Evaluation:
We take care of Dongriinees under our custody and offer mentorship & support at all stages, including being available for visitation days for high school students.
HER CHANCE
Supporting Girl-Children is a cornerstone of our work at DF. We dedicate “Her Chance” to advocating and empowering girls in the refugee camp and beyond. Girls in our communities face gender inequality, limited health and hygiene services and limited access to education. We aim to provide girls with the necessary tools, support and opportunities to thrive.
Approach
Girl-to-Girl Mentorship.
Community Awareness Campaigns and Advocacy.
Leadership Training and Involvement
Health and Hygiene Support
FRIENDS AWARDS
Every year, starting in 2023, we offered Six awards to the best girl and boy at the “Primary Leaving Examination,” “Uganda Certificate of Education,” and “Uganda Advanced Certificate of Education.” These awards go to the pupils and students who sit their national examinations in the settlements. The prize each student receives varies every year. The Friends Awards are in honour of the spirit of Dongriinism and friendship among the members of Dongriin Foundation. The funding comes from the Dongriinians, who aim to instil the principle of looking after one another as students despite one’s background.
Approach
Monetary Awards
Scholastic gifts
Mentorship
PUBLICATIONS
We strongly encourage Personal development and discipline as core principles at Dongriin Foundation. Annually, Dongriin Library chooses two non-academic books that Dongriinians and Dongriinees binge on. This is to instil the reading culture in our communities and foster reading as a habit. Every Dongriinian is a bookworm. Read with Us.