Daisy Nkinzi is Awarded “Top Student of the Year” for 2017

We are so proud to honor one of our most brilliant and resilient sponsored students.

Daisy Nkinzi was recently awarded “Top Student of the Year” based on her outstanding performance in the 2017 Primary Leaving Exams. Daisy scored the highest grade among the entire school (over 250 classmates), as well as among Children of Uganda’s P7 sponsored students.

And yet, Daisy has had to face and overcome many obstacles to reach this remarkable height.

Daisy lost her father at a young age and – in a misguided endeavor to support the children – her mother opened a local bar at the family’s home. The bar is open 16 hours a day; so, the threat of violence from drunk or reckless customers is constantly at their doorstep. The environment is very unsafe for her and her 9 children.

Children of Uganda came to Daisy’s rescue in 2010 after taking her on for sponsorship and enrolling her in boarding school. Finally, she had a chance to grow up as a child and receive a quality education.

It’s unfortunate that her mother did not demonstrate the same commitment, because she has never come to check on Daisy at school (it’s a requirement for parents to see their child on school visitation days) or send the minimal requirements. Therefore, a COU staff member was assigned to follow up on Daisy and support her as needed.

Despite all this, Daisy remained focused in school and worked very hard. Her grades kept improving and she ended up being one of the best students in her class every single school term throughout her primary level of education.

When asked what the secret was behind her excellent grades she answered, “I read all the time.” She refers to her books as best friends.

Daisy wants to become a doctor when she grows up. Her aspiration was sparked the day she went to a local hospital and saw pregnant women suffering in labor pains – with no doctors or nurses available to take care of them.

“Pregnant women wanted to give birth, but were stranded. I want to help such people,” she affirmed.

From that day, she determined to work hard and become a doctor to be able to help women in need.

This year, Daisy will be joining St. Cyprian High School (one of the top schools in the region) for her secondary level education. We are extremely proud of Daisy and can’t wait to see all that she will accomplish in the future!