For over six years, Bethesda Ministries International (BMI) has supported vulnerable students at the MHCD Secondary and Polytechnic School in Luvungi, DRC, through the Luvungi Education Fund. The program focuses on single mothers, women, and girls who have been victims of war-related violence, orphans, and internally displaced persons. It also includes refugees from Burundi. Each year, more than 200 students benefit from this initiative, receiving free education and medical care at the MHCD Luvungi Hospital.
The fund aims to assist single mothers, girls, and women affected by the various conflicts in the DRC, as well as orphans and street children. Annually, over 20 students complete their studies, earning national diplomas in fields such as tailoring, car mechanics, pedagogy (education), social studies, information technology, and agronomy.
Notably, many graduates of the Luvungi Education Fund return to their villages, contributing to their communities’ socio-economic development. One inspiring example is Rosette from Luberizi, who studied tailoring at the MHCD Secondary and Polytechnic School. After obtaining her diploma, she returned to her village and established a tailoring training centre. Here, she trains over 34 girls and women who are victims of sexual violence and other traumas. After 3 to 6 months of training, these women receive certificates and are empowered to support themselves and their families.
Rosette’s efforts significantly impact the educational and socio-economic landscape of her village and the surrounding areas. Since completing her studies, she has trained over 100 women, helping them regain independence while also supporting her own family by covering school fees, medical expenses, and daily needs.
Another success story is Ushindi, who, after receiving support from the Luvungi Education Fund, completed her training in tailoring. She now manages the MHCD Tailoring Training Centre in Luvungi, is married, and has three children. The program has transformed her life, providing her with the means to care for her siblings and ensure their education and well-being.
Butoto, a young orphan, is another testament to the program’s impact. After graduating from MHCD Luvungi Secondary School with the support of the Luvungi Education Fund, he continued his education at Uvira Community University in agronomy. Graduating in 2023, he now teaches agronomy at his former school, aiding other orphans while providing for his own family.
These stories illustrate how the Luvungi Education Fund has positively changed lives, particularly for women in Uvira Territory. Currently, over 900 students require support, but financial constraints limit assistance to fewer than 200 students.
We invite you to support the Luvungi Education Fund so we can extend our reach and help more students achieve their educational goals. For more information, please contact Dr. Luc Mulimbalimba or Pastor Darren Hessenberger. Your contributions can create lasting change in the lives of these students and their communities.
