My Life Experience During My Three-Month Internship At The National Council For Persons With Disabilities

Introduction

Securing an internship placement at the National Council for Persons with Disabilities (NCPD) was a challenging yet rewarding experience. Initially, I did not know where the council was located, but after some effort, I was able to find it and submit my application. Fortunately, I was granted the opportunity to complete my internship at this esteemed institution.

This placement allowed me to gain practical work experience, apply the theoretical knowledge I had acquired at university, and develop new skills in communication, writing, and computer usage. Additionally, I gained invaluable experience working for and with persons with disabilities.

My Internship Experience

During my internship, I was assigned various tasks by my organizational supervisor, including report writing, creating presentations using PowerPoint, taking meeting minutes, printing, and photocopying. I also had the opportunity to participate in fieldwork during a capacity-building workshop for 30 District Councils for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) in Mbarara, held at Igongo Cultural Centre.

Through this workshop, I learned about the composition of the District Disability Councils, their role in connecting persons with disabilities to government economic empowerment programs, and NCPD’s role in capacity-building and monitoring these district councils. This experience enriched my understanding of working with people from different regions of Uganda, engaging with stakeholders in disability development, and maintaining professional boundaries in diverse work settings.

Challenges and How I Overcame Them

Like any new experience, my internship came with its challenges. One of the most significant obstacles was communication, as well as the limited access to necessary equipment, such as computers. Additionally, the ongoing renovation of the council premises and the frequent fieldwork assignments of my immediate supervisor posed logistical difficulties.

To overcome the communication challenges, I used lip reading and written notes. I would position myself close to my supervisor or others to better understand their instructions. For the lack of equipment, I borrowed a laptop from a friend and made use of any available computers that my supervisor could provide. When the office renovation disrupted our work, I relocated with my field supervisor to the National Union of Women with Disabilities of Uganda (NUWODU) offices - a partner of the Council, where I continued my internship. Finally, I learned to adapt to my supervisor's fieldwork schedule, which taught me the importance of flexibility and readiness in the workplace.

Conclusion

In conclusion, I would like to express my deep appreciation to the Acting Executive Secretary, my supervisor, and all the council members who contributed to my successful internship at the NCPD. If I were to choose a family, it would undoubtedly be the NCPD. It is a place where genuine love, care, and the nurturing of persons with disabilities are found. I would not be where I am today without the opportunities, challenges, and lessons that I experienced during my time at the council. Thank you, NCPD, for this life-changing experience! - Rinah Namwase