In the heart of North-western Uganda lies a story woven with resilience, vision, and an unwavering commitment to education. The Erussi Institute of Science and Technology, a beacon of hope for the community, is the brainchild of Mr. Martin Hula and the Kerali Foundation—a family deeply rooted in the values of learning and perseverance.

The Kerali family, hailing from a small village in Erussi, boasts a remarkable legacy. With eleven children, their parents instilled a strong belief in the transformative power of education. This dedication has yielded an impressive lineage: three Civil Engineers (two of whom are Professors and one has a Master’s Degree), a Medical Doctor with a PhD in Neuroscience, a Psychologist, a Registered Nurse/Midwife, a Secretary who is also a Community Service Worker, a Teacher, a Lawyer, a Political Scientist and IT specialist, a Forrest Officer and several Entrepreneurs. Their story is a testament to the heights that education can achieve.

However, this family’s journey has not been without heartache. In 1996, tragedy struck when Mr. Claudio Mamba Kerali and Mrs. Sylvia Odota Kerali were brutally murdered by rebels in their homestead. This loss marked the beginning of a series of tragedies that would haunt the family for years. In 1999 and 2008, the family mourned the deaths of sisters Helen and Betty Kerali, respectively. Between 2020 and 2024, they faced the heartbreaking loss of five brothers: Mr. Mike Kerali, a Psychologist in Uppsala, Sweden; Professor Anthony Kerali, a renowned Civil Engineer in Kampala; Mr. Patrick Robert Opio, a Businessman in Nebbi; Mr. Denis Kerali, a Forest officer in Nebbi who passed on while pursuing a Master’s Degree in Agriculture ; and Mr. Chris Kerali, an IT specialist who lived in the UK but later retired to run the family farm in Erussi—each leaving an indelible mark on the family’s legacy.

It was during the funeral of Chris Kerali in February 2024 that a profound idea emerged. Gathered in grief, Mr. Martin Hula, married to Dr. Grace Kerali Hula, and the Kerali family members envisioned a way to honor their fallen loved ones—a memorial school that would serve as a tribute to the family’s commitment to education.
The timing was poignant. Chris had devoted his later years to running the family farm in Erussi, and his passing sparked a desire to create something lasting for the community. With the support and sponsorship of family members like Professor Henry Kerali, a former Director of The World Bank, and Mr. Martin Hula, an IT specialist and entrepreneur based in the UK, the vision of the Erussi Institute of Science and Technology began to take shape.

This new educational institution aims to empower young people and adults, with a special focus on educating and empowering women and girls. By providing opportunities for women, who may otherwise not have access to education, the Erussi Institute represents a pivotal chance to break the cycle of poverty through education and skill development.

The Kerali family’s commitment to education is not just a tribute to their parents; it is a lifeline for a community that deserves the opportunity to thrive. As the Erussi Institute of Science and Technology prepares to open its doors, it stands as a symbol of resilience and hope.

The foundations of the institute’s building were laid in mid-July 2024, marking a significant milestone in our journey. Under the expert management of Mr. Tom Okao, founder of Fountainhead Institute in Lira, Uganda, the construction process was executed with remarkable dedication. His selfless commitment ensured that the first phase of the project was completed by mid-December 2024, paving the way for a bright future.

Additionally, we are grateful for the invaluable guidance of Dr. Alfred Tingo, Academic Registrar at the Department of Law at Makerere University, and Dr. Sarah Akello Esimu, a Senior Lecturer at the Department of Agriculture at the same esteemed institution. Their insights and expertise played a crucial role in establishing EIST University, shaping our vision into reality.

The facility itself boasts four spacious classrooms, thoughtfully designed to promote collaboration and engagement among students. Complementing these are two dedicated toilet blocks, ensuring comfort and convenience for all. Essential facilities for staff and the principal have also been incorporated, creating a supportive learning environment that fosters growth and inspiration. Together, we are building not just a school, but a nurturing community dedicated to empowering future generations.

In addition to a strong academic foundation, we will offer courses that lead to valuable certifications, including:

- Certificate in Fashion and Garment Design
- National Certificate in Agricultural Production and Management
- National Diploma in Crop Production and Management
- National Certificate in Building Construction
 
Together, we can make a lasting impact on the futures of these students.
Join us in celebrating this remarkable achievement. Together, we can transform the future of Erussi, paving the way for generations to come. Education is not just a privilege; it is a right, and through the Erussi Institute, that right is being extended to all.

We are thrilled to announce that the Erussi Institute of Science and Technology (EIST) officially opened its doors to its first students in February 2025!

This milestone marks a significant step toward empowering the youth of North Western Uganda and East Africa at large with the education and skills they need to build a brighter future for themselves and their communities.  

However, our journey is far from over. To truly fulfil the mission of EIST, we need your support.  

Why We Need Your Help
 
Right now, we are raising funds to build dormitories, with a special focus on ensuring safe and secure accommodation for girls, who face unique challenges in accessing education. A dedicated dormitory will provide them with a safe space to live, learn, and thrive—free from the risks of long commutes and other barriers that often stand in their way.

How Your Donations Will Be Used  

Your generosity will directly contribute to:  

1. Construction of Girls' Dormitories – Building a safe, secure, and fully equipped living space to accommodate female students.  
2. Construction of Boys' Dormitories – Ensuring equal access to safe housing for male students as well.  
3. Essential Amenities – Providing basic necessities such as beds, mattresses, clean water facilities, and electricity to create a comfortable and conducive environment for learning.  
4. Safety Measures – Installing secure fencing, lighting, and other safety features to protect all students.  

Every dollar you give goes directly to making this dream a reality.  

The Impact of Your Support  

Your contribution will not only help us build these much-needed facilities but will also empower the next generation of students—future leaders, innovators, and change-makers—who will transform their communities and beyond.

Join us in making this dream a reality

Every donation, no matter the size, brings us closer to creating a safe and supportive environment where all students, especially girls, can focus on their studies and achieve their full potential.  
Together, we can build more than dormitories—we can build futures.  

Donate today and be part of this life-changing journey. 

Thank you for your generosity and belief in the power of education to transform lives. You can donate here: