A Year of Resilience and Impact: 2023 Annual Accounts Published
Windle Trust International (WTI) is proud to announce the publication of its 2023 Annual Accounts, now available for review on our website. The past year presented unprecedented challenges, particularly with the outbreak of conflict in Sudan, yet WTI remained steadfast in its mission to expand access to quality education for communities affected by conflict, displacement, and marginalisation.
The 2023 Annual Accounts not only detail WTI's financial position but also celebrate our significant achievements throughout the year. From supporting over 1,000 schools and benefiting more than half a million learners to enhancing educational infrastructure and awarding hundreds of scholarships, WTI's impact continues to resonate across the regions we serve.
We invite our supporters, partners, and the public to explore the full report to better understand how WTI is driving positive change in some of the most challenging environments.
Key Achievements in 2023
2023 was a year of significant progress for Windle Trust International. Despite the formidable challenges posed by the conflict in Sudan and global economic pressures, WTI’s commitment to transforming lives through education never wavered. Key achievements include:
Supporting Educational Infrastructure and Access: WTI played a crucial role in enhancing educational opportunities by supporting 1,077 schools across Sudan and South Sudan, directly benefiting 516,387 learners.
Teacher and Leadership Training: A total of 9,419 teachers and 34,290 school governors received training, focusing on improving educational quality and leadership.
Distribution of Educational Materials: WTI distributed 15,800 teaching and learning materials across South Sudan, significantly enhancing the learning environment.
Scholarships for Higher Education: In 2023, WTI awarded 558 higher education scholarships to refugees and individuals affected by conflict to study in Sudan, Uganda, South Sudan, and the UK, affirming our belief in the transformative power of education.
Infrastructure Development: WTI made significant strides in improving the physical learning environment, including the construction and renovation of classrooms, sanitation facilities, and the provision of 205 school desks.
Community Mobilisation and Girl’s Education: WTI's initiatives led to increased school attendance and retention, particularly for girls, with cash transfers to 68,427 schoolgirls in South Sudan.
Financial Summary of 2023
WTI’s financial management in 2023 reflected strong stewardship amid challenging conditions. Total income rose by 14% to £5.6 million, driven by a strategic focus on full cost recovery from institutional donors. Despite these challenges, WTI achieved a modest surplus of £7,000, bringing total reserves to £549,000, of which £146,000 are held as ‘free’ reserves, ensuring financial stability and flexibility.
The adoption of a cloud-based accounting system improved efficiency and accuracy in financial management, further strengthening WTI’s operational capabilities. The organisation successfully balanced restricted and unrestricted income, ensuring that both project-specific and broader mission-driven activities were well-supported.
Best Practices and Impact
WTI upheld best practices across all operations in 2023, ensuring that its programmes were effective, sustainable, and accountable. Key highlights include:
Governance and Management: Regular reviews of the risk management framework, financial oversight by the Finance Committee, and the transition to cloud-based accounting strengthened WTI’s operations.
Safeguarding and Community Engagement: Comprehensive safeguarding training ensured a safe environment for all participants, while community mobilisation efforts, especially for girls’ education, significantly increased school attendance.
Innovative Educational Programmes: The Accelerated Secondary Education Programme and the James Aryam Scholarships provided crucial educational opportunities to individuals otherwise excluded due to conflict or poverty.
Infrastructure Commitment: The completion of WTI’s purpose-built office in Juba, South Sudan, underscores our long-term commitment to the region. This modern facility provides a dedicated space for staff, supports operational efficiency, and symbolizes our enduring presence in South Sudan.
Looking Ahead
As we look to 2024, WTI remains focused on its core mission: to provide quality education to those most in need. We will continue to expand our scholarship programmes, strengthen teacher training, and support displaced children and refugees. Our new Juba office exemplifies our dedication to South Sudan, ensuring that we are well-positioned to address both current and future educational challenges.
Conclusion
As we reflect on 2023, Windle Trust International celebrates a year of impactful achievements, sound financial management, and strategic growth. We remain deeply committed to our mission of transforming lives through education and invite all our supporters and partners to review the full 2023 Annual Accounts. Together, we will continue to make a lasting difference in the communities we serve.
