About Ka Kuc
Our Story
From one family's experience to a place of peace
Ka Kuc means ‘Place of Peace’. Its beginnings are rooted in the need for suitable early care and learning close to home in Lira.
Oliver and Jovan
Oliver Apio spent much of her childhood and teenage years caring for Jovan, a child with disabilities. Her experience helped bring the challenges faced by children and caregivers into focus.
The need in Lira
Families caring for children with disabilities need nearby, appropriate opportunities for care, play and early learning. Oliver's experience helped make that need visible.
The response
Ka Kuc was established as a community response: a place where children can experience care, nutrition, friendship and belonging, with families involved in their development.
About Ka Kuc
About
Who we are, how we work and what guides our care.
Who we are
A place of peace in Ireda Agali Village
Ka Kuc Daycare and Early Learning Centre is based in Ireda Agali Village, Lira. It focuses on children approximately 2–6 years old, especially children with disabilities and families with limited access to suitable early childhood services.
The centre's name means ‘Place of Peace’. Its aim is to offer care, learning and developmental support shaped around each child's abilities, with families involved along the way.
Our approach
Care shaped around each child's abilities
The planned care model combines play, communication, movement and family involvement rather than a fixed pace for every child.
Learning through play
Play is the natural way children explore ideas, solve problems and make sense of their world.
Curiosity
We encourage children to ask questions, investigate and follow their own interests.
Creativity
Art, music, movement and pretend play give children many ways to express themselves.
Social interaction
Everyday moments help children learn to share, take turns and build friendships.
Communication
Talking, listening, singing and storytelling help children express thoughts and feelings.
Confidence
Small successes and gentle support help children grow the confidence to try new things.
Holistic child development
We care for the whole child — their mind, body, feelings and relationships.
About Ka Kuc
Families
Children and families we serve
Ka Kuc is designed for children approximately 2–6 years old, particularly children with disabilities and families who may have limited access to suitable early childhood services.
Beyond a diagnosis
A child's abilities, interests and individual needs matter more than any label. Development is supported according to each child's pace.
Caregivers' knowledge
Parents and caregivers bring essential knowledge of their child's communication, routines and needs to conversations about care.
Working together
Where appropriate, families and relevant community or professional services can work together to understand a child's needs.
About Ka Kuc
Inclusion
Children with disabilities belong at the heart of Ka Kuc
The centre's vision is for children with different abilities to experience care, play, nutrition, friendship and learning together.
Individual needs
Activities can be shaped around a child's abilities rather than expecting every child to do the same thing in the same way.
Ways to communicate
Listening, expression and alternative ways of communicating are part of the centre's planned support.
Shared experiences
Play, movement and interaction offer opportunities to take part alongside other children, not apart from them.
Our vision
Every child can thrive
A peaceful and inclusive community where every child is valued, protected and given the opportunity to develop and thrive.
Our mission
Inclusive care, built around the child
To provide inclusive early childhood care, early learning, nutrition, protection and developmental support while working with families, caregivers, community organisations and partners to improve opportunities for children.
Our values
What guides us every day
These values guide how we care for children, work with families and remain accountable to our community.
Peace
We create calm, welcoming spaces where children can feel secure.
Dignity
Every child is valued as a whole person with abilities and potential.
Inclusion
Children participate according to their individual needs and strengths.
Compassion
We meet children and families with patience, empathy and care.
Safety
Protection and emotional wellbeing guide every decision.
Respect
We listen to children, families, caregivers and community partners.
Learning
Play and exploration create opportunities for development.
Community partnership
Lasting progress is built together with families and partners.
Accountability
We communicate honestly and use support responsibly.
Leadership & partnership
People behind the centre
Ms. Sarah Alum serves as Director and Program and Development Manager. Anthony Atine, Project Lead, handles partnership, funding and general enquiries. Their work is connected to St. Joseph's Community Center at Lira.
— Ka Kuc Daycare and Early Learning Centre
Our operating partner
Rooted in community accountability
Ka Kuc operates within the community-development context of St. Joseph's Community Center at Lira. More about the organisations supporting the work appears on the Community page.
Help sustain the centre
Where support is needed
The following needs can be discussed with the team before any contribution is arranged.
- Nutrition provision
- Learning materials and inclusive resources
- Staff and caregiver development
- Centre preparation and operating needs
Get in Touch
Have questions about enrolment, programmes or a visit? We would love to hear from you.