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The Catholic church has launched a fundraising drive seeking sh5.5b to complete Namagunga Boarding and Primary School, Kitende.

During the launch of the drive at the Kitende-based branch, Mary Assumpta Babirye the school head teacher noted that today, Sunday, marked a great milestone in the church’s journey, adding that the vision to expand a legacy of the popular St Theresa Namagunga Primary Boarding School which offers a holistic education with Christian values to the girl child in the country.

“After 20 years of dedicated service in Mukono, on behalf of the little sisters of St Francis Namagunga, we embarked on a new endeavor to create Namagunga Primary School Kitende.

This institution stands as an embodiment of our commitment to provide quality education to the parents and children yearning for the quality education that we pride ourselves in,” Babirye said.

She revealed that the constructed campus has two-storey buildings serving as dormitories and classroom facilities, a testament to their dedication to providing a conducive learning environment.

“Our vision includes completing a multi-purpose building that will house classrooms, offices, and other essential facilities as clearly stated in the school magazine.

Mary Assumpta Babirye, head teacher of Namagunga Primary School Kitende, remarking during the fundraising on April 7, 2024 in Kitende. (Photo by Simon Peter Tumwine)

The estimated cost of this project stands at sh5.5b, a significant investment towards our children’s future,” Babirye added.

She revealed that at the school’s inception in 2023, they started with 270 pupils, but the number of pupils has grown to accommodate 425 pupils this year, a clear indicator of the demand for their services.

Sister Ritah Christine Nakitende who represented the little sisters of St. Francis said today’s occasion is an invitation for all of us to look back at the wonderful apostolate of Mother Mary Kevin, a servant of God. 

“When Mother Kevin came to Uganda in 1903, she embarked on the mission of uplifting the lives of the people in spiritual, medical, and educational aspects. Her love for education led her to advance the education of the girl child,” Nakitende said, adding that at that time, formal education was considered to be only for the boys.

Using the same platform form during the mass, Papal Nuncio Archbishop Kasujja congratulated the little sisters of St. Francis who decided to open another campus in Kitende and decongest the main campus adding that this educational structure is to allow more girl children in our country and from neighbouring countries to profit from the charism of the venerable Mother Kevin.

He noted that today, many families are directed by women and many of them are assuming high responsibilities even on state level.

“It is necessary to prepare efficiently for those leaders and responsible mothers of tomorrow. I congratulate the director of this school, the governing body, her teaching, and logistics staff as well as the children who since February 2023 have become the founding students of Namagunga-Kitende Primary Boarding School,” Kasujja said.