Life stories from STTC: Maria Angura Urayo tells

The Solidarity Teacher Training College (STTC) offers quality training to become a primary school teacher and obtain certification valid at national level. For many people it is an opportunity to learn and emancipate themselves from difficult family situations and severe poverty. This is the story that Maria, a STTC student, generously told us:

“I come from Wau. We are a family of 7 brothers and 3 sisters. My father had another family with his second wife and he was rather old and unable to support us. I grew up under very difficult circumstances with my mother as sole member taking care of us. Unfortunately, when I was 7 years old my mother underwent a psychological depression and that made life very difficult for us. In order to protect me from that condition my aunt took me home so could take care of her baby, while still going to school. However, I was beaten and abused even though I was only 7 years old on the pretext that I did no work enough.

My mother died when I was 10 years old and we were homeless again as my father with his second wife was unable to care for us. A year later my father also passed away. My aunt took me in again so I could help with the baby of her daughter. However, one day I got late from school and I was told to leave the home as I did not do my duty. I had to look for shelter and this time I was supported by an uncle, my father’s brother, though life was difficult, my uncle paid my school fees and I had food because I did all the work at home. At 15, I had to find my own personal things like soap, clothes and school materials. This motivated me to attend different workshops where they provided these items and I could sustain myself. In this way I managed to complete my Primary School.

To my good fortune, at one of these workshops the Director of the NGO encouraged me to pursue my studies so that one day I might become the Minister of Education…he was joking. But he connected me with some Religious Sisters in Wau, this gave me much joy and courage. Though I thought that someday soon I might be married, I did not pursue that path. I kept visiting the Sisters and they encouraged me to be patient and courageous.

Through all this, my contact with Solidarity is a Divine gift. Though my English was not good and my past struggles did not allow me to have good experiences, despite my pain, I realize that God has a plan for me. My aunt’s daughter hearing that I was studying decided to support me and paid my school fees for this semester.

I appreciate God for the life I have.

My Journey with Solidarity has indeed been a big blessing. The Solidarity community has played an important role in my life to nurture and care for me. I was warmly embraced and welcomed at the Training College. This marked the beginning of my happiness. The love and support from my fellow students, tutors and the Solidarity community have been overwhelming. Whenever I was sick, they ensured I received the necessary treatment. All my physical needs and educational pursuits were met with excellence. Initially, I struggled with several subjects, but now I am on par with my peers, and this brings me great joy.

Though when I return home, I face numerous challenges, yet I am grateful to be back to School where life continues to be good.

I deeply appreciate the Solidarity Teacher Training College team for his tremendous efforts, patience and kindness. May God bless them all.

I thank God for the gift of being part of Solidarity Teacher Training College.”

”

Maria Angura Urayo

First-year STTC student

July 2024