Jajja's Kids Technology Review

Over the last year, volunteer Information Technology Specialist Doug Williams traveled twice to Jajja’s Kids home in Uganda to identify, evaluate and make technology improvements. 

As our young people move forward in their education, their access to up-to-date communication and computer capabilities becomes increasingly critical. Also important is ensuring that Jajja’s Kids Africa and USA teams’ have reliable technology for storing and accessing information and for communicating effectively and efficiently. 

In addition, most of our students now board during the school year for upper secondary school or university education. They require properly functioning laptop computers and phones.

Below: Doug and Program Director Ronnie Sseruyange

Communication and Infrastructure Improvements

Doug made a number of improvements at the house. He added equipment and completed work to install a high-speed, unlimited data internet connection using a microwave antenna with service from Roke TelKom. The result was better performance and cost savings compared to cellular service.

He also established local network printing and storage drives along with access to the Jajja’s Kids Google Drive in the Cloud for improved information sharing.

Doug set up a recording studio which facilitated videoing of interviews Diane Reiner conducted with the Kids and Staff. Some of these touching interviews were played at Jajja’s Kids Brunch fundraiser in October.

During Doug's visits, one of Jajja’s Kids, Kayondo, assisted him as an Information Technology intern. Kayondo shows a lot of interest and capability in this work and was very helpful.

Many thanks to Doug and Kayondo for their efforts and expertise!

Below: Doug providing IT training

Kayondo with Doug in the background

Jajja's Kids Computer and Phone Needs

Doug also reviewed the condition of computers and phones used by Jajja’s Kids' young people. He identified devices with dangerously deteriorated batteries that pose fire hazards as well as others in poor condition or simply outdated.

He recommended purchasing a supply of laptop and phone models with operating features that meet the educational and communication needs of students both at the house and school.

Devices are provided to Jajja's Kids students based on their level of education:

• Students in Senior 5 receive a phone (10th grade)
• University students receive both a phone and a laptop computer.

Students at these levels are boarding and require these devices for communication and educational purposes.

For the upcoming school year, 8 phones and 4 computers need to be provided to students. The estimated costs are $500 per laptop and $200 per phone.

A team of Board members and volunteers are traveling to Jajja's Kids at the end of April, making it an ideal time for them to deliver the devices. We plan to purchase the devices soon so Doug can install the necessary software before the trip.

Jajja's Kids will be grateful for monetary donations to purchase these items. Our students will benefit most from up-to-date models rather than donated used items.

Thank you for your support and interest in Jajja's Kids!

Jajja's Kids is grateful to our wonderful donors, sponsors, and volunteers. You make a difference in the lives of our children and staff, their families, and the broader community.

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Diane Reiner--Co-Founder and Executive Director, Jajja's Kids, USA

Ronnie Sseruyange- Co-Founder and Program Director, Jajja's Kids - Africa

P.O. Box 1425, Latham, NY 12110

Jajja's Kids, Inc. is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization.