Dear KISU Community,
As we move through the term, I’d like to highlight the importance of our annual parent survey. This is a valuable opportunity for you to provide feedback, allowing us to reflect on your experiences and make meaningful improvements to enhance the quality of education at KISU. Your input is incredibly valuable, and we encourage you to take a moment to complete the survey.
You can access it here: https://forms.gle/NW1SPVhZPcNbyqvH9
I'd also like to extend heartfelt congratulations to our PTA for their tremendous efforts in fostering an inclusive community here at KISU. The recent bus tour of Kampala's cultural landmarks was not only informative but thoroughly enjoyable for all who attended. Likewise, the Primary Halloween Party last Friday was a lively celebration, bringing smiles and fun to our younger students.
We continue to make significant investments in the school infrastructure to support our growing community. Following the recent upgrade to our wifi system – which is already having positive effects on teaching and learning – we are now in the midst of a substantial upgrade to the CCTV system. Although we have always had a first-class system, the growth in our student population means we’re adding more and better cameras around the campus to ensure even greater coverage and security for all.
In Secondary, we’re excited to be participating in Movember, led by Mr Dylan Perkins, to help highlight important male health issues. Movember started in 2003 with a mission to raise awareness around mental health issues, prostate, and testicular cancer. To support this cause, we’ll be raising funds for local charities, and some of our male teachers will be growing their 'mos', or unique moustaches, to draw attention to the campaign. Keep an eye on our social media channels and reception screens for updates and amusing pictures of teacher moustaches! For more information, you can visit the Movember website here: https://au.movember.com/?home
Below, you’ll find the Term 1 Calendar. It’s an especially busy time of year with many activities and events on the horizon, so please take a moment to see what lies ahead. Your support and involvement mean so much to us, particularly for those who come to cheer on our sports teams. I encourage more of you to join us on the sidelines – your presence truly makes a difference!
Thank you for your continued partnership and support.
Warm regards,
Lee Wilson
School Director
Enhancing Mental Health at the Workplace
During Mental Health Awareness Month, October, I attended an impactful mental health workshop at Nkumba University, Entebbe, coordinated by Munange Counseling Center. This year’s focus on “Mental Health in the Workplace” brought together mental health advocates, including leaders from the Uganda Counseling Association, esteemed psychologists, and occupational therapists. Dr. Pio Kiyingi and other experts highlighted research from Harvard, showing mental health challenges like anxiety and depression will only increase due to ongoing economic and social stressors.
This insight emphasized the need for proactive support systems in workplaces. Prioritizing benefits like paternity and maternity leave, study leave, and peer support can help enhance employee well-being. Initiatives that encourage community bonding—such as celebrating birthdays, acknowledging contributions, or organizing friendly staff sports competitions—add to the supportive environment. For added care, clinical mental health interventions, such as those offered by CaseMed, provide professional support.
Furthermore, respecting our circadian rhythms by managing work schedules promotes improved mental clarity and energy. Fear can contribute to mental health struggles if unchecked, but open conversations in the workplace can foster resilience. Inspired by the workshop, I’ve started encouraging dialogue within my team, promoting a culture where colleagues check in on one another. This workshop reminded me that small steps, like celebrating personal milestones and addressing stress early, can create a more compassionate, mentally healthy workplace where everyone feels valued and supported.
By Annabelle M.
School Counselor
KISU CHRISTMAS FAIR 2024