Finnish Refugee Council

The Finnish Refugee Council (FRC) has been actively supporting refugees and host communities in Uganda since 1997. As the only international organization in Uganda specializing in adult education for refugees, FRC operates in 13 refugee settlements across the northern, western, and southwestern regions of the country .

Core Programs and Services

1. Functional Adult Literacy (FAL):
FRC provides literacy, numeracy, and English language training to enhance refugees’ ability to manage daily tasks, access services, and participate in community life. In the Kyaka II settlement, standardized exams are conducted to assess learners’ progress and ensure consistent educational outcomes .

2. Livelihood and Financial Literacy Training:
To promote self-reliance, FRC offers training in modern agricultural techniques, environmental conservation, and financial literacy. These programs aim to improve food security and economic opportunities for both refugees and host communities .

3. Civic Engagement and Social Cohesion:
Collaborating with organizations like the Justice and Reconciliation Project, FRC conducts capacity-building trainings for community leaders and implements peace-building interventions to resolve conflicts and enhance access to justice .

4. Health Awareness Campaigns:
In response to health crises such as COVID-19 and Ebola, FRC has integrated health education into its literacy programs. The organization has conducted awareness campaigns, reaching tens of thousands of individuals across refugee settlements to promote disease prevention and health practices .

Notable Recognition

In 2024, FRC honored Petronille Mukandora, a Rwandan refugee residing in Nakivale Refugee Settlement, as the Ugandan Refugee Woman of the Year. Petronille founded the Wenzetu peer support group, providing a safe space for women to share experiences and support each other, particularly those caring for children with disabilities .

Contact Information

For more information or to get involved with FRC’s initiatives in Uganda, you can reach out to:

• Tarja Saarela-Kaonga, Country Director, Uganda
  Phone: +256 31 226 6642