RYDA (Rubaga Youth Development Association) in Kampala, Uganda.

Rubaga Youth Development Association (RYDA) is an African success story that St. Margaret’s Uniting Church has supported for over 20 years. Founded in Kampala, Uganda in 1992 and registered as a Non-Government Organisation(NGO), its mission is to advocate for orphaned and vulnerable children(OVCs).

Since its establishment in rented premises in suburban Rubaga, its major pathway in enacting this mission has been offering vocational and life-skill training to 12 – 18-year-old OVCs. Beginning with a handful of young street people in the original building, RYDA has grown to provide this life education for 200-300 male and female youths annually at a purpose-built 10 acre residential campus at Buloba.

Through the years, over 4000 students have graduated with government certificates from courses in a range of trades and have been assisted into their first job. Students pay no tuition or living costs and RYDA receives no government financial support.

St. Margaret’s holds RYDA constantly in its prayers, regularly raises funds to supplement RYDA’s other funding sources and occasionally facilitates the shipment of goods and equipment. Our RYDA website maintains a detailed record of all things RYDA.

More information – http://www.blackdouglas.com.au/ryda