Tell: (+256)772 888599 | Email: info@fichuganda.org | Location: Karacel Community Development Center, Akongatar-Iceme, Oyam, Northern Uganda.
Luka Ojok Abic’s approach to parenting has been greatly transformed by a local training initiative implemented by a youth-led organisation, Foundation for Inclusive Community Help (FICH) in partnership with Luigi Giussani Foundation (LGF).
The learning journey with schools- whole school programme focused on problem-solving skills, effective parenting and the value of respect.
Dozens of parents, community leaders and teachers who attended the dialogues at Loro Primary School, Loro Town Council and Akwangi Primary School, Iceme Sub County in Oyam District have been inspired by the programme, to among others, involve their children in decision-making and give them age-appropriate tasks.
For instance, Ojok Abic, who once believed children should be seen and not heard, now encourages his children to take ownership of their responsibilities.
Ojok Abic and his wife Rose Ojok, have been blessed with five children (four boys and one girl).
Their first born, Mercy Akello, is a Primary Four pupil at the neighbouring Akwangi Primary School. Two other children: Abraham Okello and Elvis Okello are in Primary Three and Primary One at the same government-aided school, respectively.
“I have realised that when giving tasks to my children, I need to give them according to their age, energy and the ability, other than just giving. For example, you cannot send a 6-year-old child to the garden, giving him or her a whole plot of land to dig it,” says Ojok Abic.
As a result of the sessions he attended, the father has moved away from being an authoritarian to authoritative.
He has also learned that it is significant for children to take part in decision-making.
“We make decisions together, as a family,” the father says. “The children have a say in how we spend our money, and they’re learning valuable skills along the way.”
Interestingly, the children beam with pride as they discuss their tasks. “I help Mom cook dinner, and Dad teaches me about prices and budgets,” says Akello. “I feel like a grown-up!”
The son, who is in Primary Three, agrees. “We talk about needs and wants, and it’s like being a part of the family business.”
As the family sits down to plan their weekly meals, the father asks for input, weighing the pros and cons of each suggestion. The children learn to prioritise, to compromise, and to make informed decisions.
“This training has been a game-changer. Before these dialogues, it was very difficult for us to handle challenges that were facing our family. Right now, my children are growing into responsible, confident individuals, and I’m proud to be their father,” says Ojok Abic as he smiles.
The family’s collaborative approach has created a sense of unity and purpose. The children feel valued, heard, and empowered, and the father is reaping the rewards of effective parenting.
