By Ivan Tsebeni
When the country went into the 42-days lockdown, a section of students especially those doing internships and research opted to remain in hostels because they could not travel back to their homes. Most of them struggle to afford a living given the meager resources. However, on Saturday 17th July 2021, Rachael Serwadda who is a student of Bachelors of Laws donated food items to her colleagues in different hostels.
The items included: mangoes, pineapples, watermelon and spaghetti which according to Serwadda are the most essential in body immunity.
"I told my parents about the plight of my friends in hostels and they promised to support me with food items. My father harvested fruits from his farm and bought some food stuffs which he asked me distribute to my fellow students."
Serwadda distributed food to about 300 students.
Joyce Nangobi, a second year student of Bachelor of Peace, Human Rights and Humanitarian Intervention confirmed having received aid, saying the initiative came at the right time.
"It is a wise idea to at least feed us on fruits during this time we need. I am glad I received it," Nangobi said.
Another beneficiary from Marvin Hostel, who preferred anonymity, said: "It is Christian enough for one to support others. I appreciate Rachel and her parents for supporting us."
He added that the lockdown has been a difficult experience to him and his colleagues.
"I usually meet my friends, but they tell me that life is hard. I thank God that the 42 days are soon ending," he added.
This donation has come a few weeks after the University Chaplaincy also extended support to the same category of students. Reports indicate that the Guild Parliament last week passed a resolution of diverting their June allowances to buying food items to students who are in this category.