19-Year-Old Boxer Returns to Primary School After Winning Scholarship

In Summary
  • Impressed by the young athlete’s performance and potential, Kadaga extended her support in the form of a full scholarship.
19-year-old Salamat Tibesigwa
19-year-old Salamat Tibesigwa
Image: Courtesy

In a remarkable story of determination and second chances, 19-year-old Salamat Tibesigwa, an aspiring professional boxer, has returned to primary school after being awarded a scholarship by Rt. Hon. Rebecca Kadaga, Uganda’s Minister for East African Affairs and former Speaker of Parliament.

Tibesigwa’s life took a turn during the recent Kagulu Rock Climbing Challenge, an annual event aimed at promoting tourism in Uganda’s Busoga region. 

The event was officiated by the Kyabazinga (king) of Busoga, drawing participants from all walks of life. Among them was Tibesigwa, whose boxing skills and resilience caught the attention of Hon. Kadaga.

Impressed by the young athlete’s performance and potential, Kadaga extended her support in the form of a full scholarship.

Thanks to this life-changing gesture, Tibesigwa has been admitted to Primary six at Jinja City Junior School in Kimaka. For Tibesigwa, this scholarship means much more than just an education.

It is an opportunity to pursue her dreams while continuing her academic journey, which had been interrupted by life’s challenges.

Balancing her passion for boxing with her education, she aims to become both a professional athlete and an empowered individual through her schooling.

Tibesigwa’s journey is a testament to what can be achieved with a helping hand and an indomitable spirit