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From Classrooms Under a Tree to a Thriving Village: How Pastoral and Carpentry Skills have developed a Community

Posted By:
Southern Regional College

8th Sep 2025

This summer, Southern Regional College lecturer William McConnell returned to Uganda for the fifth time, marking twenty-five years since his first visit. A lecturer in carpentry and joinery, William brought not only his professional skills, but also his deep commitment to pastoral care and encouragement.  Qualities which have made a lasting impact on all his students across the globe.

Travelling as part of a Boys’ Brigade volunteer team from the Newry, Mourne and Down area, William revisited the village of Kawondwe in Uganda’s Nakasongola district. Since his first trip in 2000, when he helped to roof classrooms and build desks for children who had previously gathered under a tree for lessons, he has witnessed remarkable transformation in the village. What began with the construction of two classrooms blocks for 97 children has grown into a thriving community with a medical centre, a secondary school, and the New Beginnings Orphanage.

On his most recent visit, William’s work included crafting storage cabinets for the orphanage and school, but his influence stretches far beyond the carpentry workshop. For William, returning to Uganda is about investing in people and showing them that they matter. He explained:

“We’re not going out to change the whole world, but we can make a difference in one small part of it. Building the primary school was a turning point.  It showed local people the value of hard work, and it taught children the importance of education. But more than that, going back each time shows them they are not forgotten. It’s about encouragement as much as it is about buildings.”

William is inspired by the individual stories of lives changed through education. He mentions Erza, now a young man who he met on his most recent trip.  Ezra attended the then newly constructed primary school and went onto complete secondary school at the Bethel Royal High School.  Erza is now in his final year of law school in Kampala. For William, these personal journeys are a reminder that hope and opportunity can spread from even the smallest acts of service.

“Sometimes we may go out thinking that we’ll be a blessing to the people there, but often they bless us more.”

For over 30 years, William has poured his energy into guiding young people, whether through football coaching, his leadership in the Boys’ Brigade, or in the classroom at Southern Regional College, where he has taught for two decades. His approach is shaped by his belief in doing things well and encouraging others to reach their potential.

“I’ve always enjoyed working with people, helping them to grow in confidence and skill. For me, quality matters. It’s not about rushing but about doing the job right, and that’s the mindset I try to instil in my students.”

William began his career as a carpentry apprentice in 1979 and today coordinates the Level 3 Carpentry Apprenticeship programme at Southern Regional College, training the next generation of skilled carpenters and joiners. His experience, paired with his pastoral care, has made him a respected figure within the College and beyond.

Gareth Mone, Curriculum Area Manager at Southern Regional College commented:

“William is an invaluable member of staff. His pastoral care is second to none; he goes above and beyond to ensure students fulfil their potential. His work in Uganda reflects the very best of who he is: generous, compassionate, and driven to make the world a better place. I think we could all take a leaf out of his book. His impact on the college has always been positive, from coordinating the level 3 carpentry provision as well as being the CSR coordinator for the College.  He has left a real mark, not only on the College and the countless qualified joiners and carpenters he has helped shape, but within the community projects he has been involved in”.

The Boys’ Brigade volunteer team from the Newry, Mourne and Down area mission statement is; “By the grace of God to help Ugandans achieve self-sustainability, through the teaching and improvement of skills, promoting hard work and endeavour.”