The Ladybird Infant Primary School is a hub of education, fellowship and commerce in Kampala, Uganda. Mariam Noah is the proprietress and her 18 employees teach the “three R’s,” as well as English, science and social studies. Mariam leads the 411 students, including 213 girls, in physical education exercises and singing in the school courtyard.
As a member of the Opportunity Progressive Trust Group, Mariam is applying for a Banking on Education loan to build a new school. She dreams of indoor plumbing, soccer fields and concrete-block classrooms that will serve students up to seventh grade. This will also provide her with a nicer place to share for community gatherings such as parties, weddings and funeral services. Mariam is well-respected as a leader in the community and her wisdom is highly valued and sought after when her neighbors are facing a problem.
Opportunity loans and training have enabled Mariam to run her school efficiently without any gaps in service. With increased profits, she has built her own house, cares for her mother and has educated all three of her children, including her 14-year-old daughter. Also, having a savings account and credit insurance with Opportunity gives her security and peace of mind. Mariam says, “I am now very contented and comfortable.”
