UTU
Nurturing the Whole Child Through African Wisdom
At Jasiri Mugumo School, our UTU philosophy is the beating heart of everything we do. We believe that true education is not just about academics, but about nurturing the whole child—mind, body, and spirit—rooted deeply in the values of African identity and community.
Ubuntu: I Am Because We Are
UTU, a Swahili concept meaning "humanity," guides our approach to developing confident, compassionate, and culturally grounded learners who understand themselves and their place in the world.
Ancient African Wisdom
Ubuntu is found in all African languages and shares a root with the word Bantu meaning "people." It's a Shona word from South Africa meaning that each person's humanity is bound up with the humanity of others.
This philosophy expresses belief in a universal bond—if we can see everyone as connected to us, we will never be able to treat others as disposable or without worth.
Living Ubuntu at Jasiri
We explore ideas of kindness and forgiveness, tolerance and the power of listening; the courage to be authentic. We live in hope of overcoming divisions and become stronger together in a world where the wise build bridges not walls.
These implications are woven into learning throughout the term and the entire year, creating a foundation for lifelong growth and community connection.
The Four Pillars of UTU
How we nurture the whole child through Afrocentric learning and Ubuntu values
Know Thyself
We believe that self-awareness is the foundation of growth. Our programs are designed to help children explore their unique strengths, talents, and interests.
Through reflective sessions, storytelling, and creative arts, students learn to embrace their individuality while understanding how they contribute to the collective good.
By knowing themselves, they grow into leaders who are both self-assured and empathetic.
Afrocentric Approach
Our curriculum celebrates African heritage and perspectives. We integrate African history, languages, and philosophies into daily learning, ensuring that students develop a strong cultural identity.
We expose them to African innovators, thinkers, and leaders, showing that excellence and creativity are deeply rooted in their heritage.
Whether through literature, music, or science, our students see themselves reflected in the curriculum, building pride and purpose.
Holistic Learning Environment
UTU is not confined to the classroom. It's in the way we encourage children to collaborate, solve problems, and care for one another. It's in the respect they show for their environment and their community.
We create spaces where children feel safe to express themselves and are challenged to think critically and act ethically.
Our educators serve as mentors, modeling integrity, resilience, and kindness.
A Community of Belonging
We see education as a partnership between school, family, and community. Parents are an integral part of the UTU journey, participating in school activities and sharing their wisdom and experiences.
Together, we create a supportive network where children thrive. By fostering a sense of belonging and purpose, we prepare our students to be global citizens grounded in their African roots.
This partnership ensures that Ubuntu values extend beyond school walls into homes and communities.
UTU + Afrocentric Learning
Where Ubuntu philosophy meets African-centered education
Cultural Identity
Students see themselves reflected in every subject, building unshakeable pride in their heritage
Critical Thinking
Ubuntu values guide inquiry-based learning that questions, explores, and creates solutions
Future Leaders
Graduates who are proud of who they are, inspired by where they come from, and equipped to lead
"UTU is more than a philosophy—it is a way of life"
At Jasiri Mugumo School, we are raising a generation of learners who are proud of who they are, inspired by where they come from, and equipped to shape a brighter future for themselves and their communities.