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Students
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Our Mission

Educating conflict-affected children and youth to lead and rebuild communities.

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We exist for a reason...

Every year, millions of people are forced to flee their homes due to war and natural disasters, becoming refugees or internally displaced. This crisis disproportionately affects women, children, youth, and the elderly. In the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), ongoing conflict and widespread poverty make access to education and other essential services a daily struggle for many children. Similarly, in Uganda, the rising influx of refugees in settlements has led to overcrowded classrooms, strained resources, and increased demands on refugee families. These challenges hinder the quality of education, depriving children of learning opportunities and limiting their prospects. Additionally, the loss of jobs and livelihoods for parents further entrenches cycles of poverty and instability.

CIYOTA is a refugee-led, community-driven non-profit organisation dedicated to empowering refugees, Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs), and marginalised youth in Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). We believe that education, leadership, and entrepreneurship are the keys to transforming conflict-affected communities into thriving, self-reliant societies.

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OUR DIRECT AND INDIRECT IMPACT IN NUMBERS

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Lives Transformed

through our programs and initiatives across education, Community Engagement, and humanitarian assistance in Uganda and DRC.

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Young people who received ECD & primary education
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Young people who received secondary education
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Youth attended University
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Our reach via community engagement
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Refugee Students Supported
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Ugandan Students supported
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Humanitarian assistance for IDPs - Refugees
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Skills Development


Empowering Lives Through Education, Skilling, and Humanitarian Support

We provide high-quality education for refugees and disadvantaged youth, supporting early childhood development, primary, secondary, university preparation, and skilling programs. We also partner with schools for teacher training, student scholarships, university preparation, and psychosocial support while promoting socially responsible entrepreneurship and leadership. Additionally, we offer humanitarian aid to displaced individuals in need of food, clean water, and sanitary materials. Our initiatives empower individuals, strengthen communities, and build a sustainable foundation for growth.

Education Program Community Support Community Support Skills Training Community Support Humanitarian Aid Community Support Community Support Teacher Training Community Support Community Support Community Support Humanitarian Aid Community Support Community Support Teacher Training Community Support Community Support Community Support

Where We Work

Uganda Flag

Uganda

Around 8 million children start primary school, but less than half reach secondary. For refugees, only 40% attend primary, under 10% reach secondary, and even fewer make it to university.

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DRC Flag

Democratic Republic of Congo

In the DRC, 3.5 million children are out of school, with 7.2 million IDPs facing even greater barriers. Girls and children with disabilities are most affected, struggling to complete primary education.

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What Students say!

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CIYOTA’s basket weaving project taught me entrepreneurship, creativity, and problem-solving. The income I earn helps me buy scholastic materials and meet personal needs.

Katusabe Immaculate

Student at CIYOTA secondary school

Through the Beekeeping Club, I gained hands-on skills in beekeeping and entrepreneurship. Selling honey helps me support my needs and improve my life.

Maida Asimwe Baraka

Student at CIYOTA secondary school

At CIYOTA, we learn values like respect and discipline. I’m part of the poultry project, where I’ve learned to feed, treat, and care for chickens. I’m proud to be a CIYOTA student.

Naomi Dusabe

Student at CIYOTA secondary school

CIYOTA gave me free education and taught me to make liquid soap. These skills helped me develop business ideas and share them with my community.

Isaac Uwimana

Student at CIYOTA secondary school

The skilling program gave me hope and confidence. Basket weaving helped me become a leader, share knowledge, and empower my community.

Bambu Gloria

Student at CIYOTA secondary school

Our Partners

We collaborate with visionary organisations and partners to provide quality education, empower communities, and drive sustainable innovation forward.