Hope for Kasubi school pupils as classroom gets facelift

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Loud cheers and endless applause filled the dusty compound of Kampala city-based Kasubi Family Primary School on May 8, 2026, as pupils saw an artist’s impressions of the modern school to replace the crumbling classrooms they have known for years.

For many learners, the moment felt almost unbelievable.

Some pointed excitedly at the projected designs of spacious classrooms and playgrounds, while others struggled to contain their excitement at the thought of finally studying in a cleaner and safer environment.

For years, the school in Kasubi, Lubaga division, has operated in deteriorating structures marked by congestion, dust and constant noise from the surrounding neighbourhood.

Now, a shillings two billion redevelopment project promises to transform the school into a modern learning centre by 2027.

The project will be implemented by China Communications Construction Company and will include modern classrooms, a kitchen and community baking centre, dining facilities, staff quarters, playgrounds and improved infrastructure.

School headteacher Florence Mabaale described the breaking of the ground as a turning point for a school that has struggled since its structures were demolished in 2017.

Current state of classrooms.

“Today is a day of hope, a day of new beginnings and a day we shall always remember,” she said.

The school currently accommodates 700 primary pupils, 14 teachers and 76 nursery children despite limited learning space.

The redevelopment project was launched by Roofings Group in partnership with Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA).

Roofings Group chairman Dr Lalani pens a signature on the artists’ impressions of the modern school as Benon Kigenyi, KCCA deputy executive director takes a close look. (Courtesy)

Mabaale said the school’s journey toward redevelopment began in December 2023, when Ariana Lalani and her mother, Winfred Lalani, introduced a community skilling programme that trained learners and residents in baking, weaving, beading, and jewellery-making.

The initiative later exposed the Lalani family to the school's poor condition.

“It is from this visit that Mr [Sikander] Lalani [Chairperson Roofings Group] developed a deep interest in our school and our children,” Mabaale said.

My daughter played a lead role

Roofings Group's Sikander said his daughter Ariana played a major role in convincing the family to take on the project after regularly interacting with learners during cooking lessons.

Roofings Group chairman Dr Lalani, his wife in the centre and the school headteacher moving around the school. (Courtesy)

“She used to go to the school and conduct cooking lessons with the children. Upon her return, she advocated for the reconstruction of the school,” Lalani said.

The redevelopment is expected to significantly improve the learning environment for both pupils and teachers who have endured overcrowded classrooms for years.

Science and mathematics teacher Opejo Akisoferi said teaching effectively has been difficult because of limited space.

“You cannot reach every individual when you are teaching,” he said.

He added that pupils often arrive at school smartly dressed but return home covered in dust because of the environment surrounding the classrooms.

“So this project is going to help us so much,” he said.

Pupils also expressed optimism that the redevelopment would improve academic performance and restore pride in the school.

Speaking on behalf of learners, Joyce Nanfuka Whitney said pupils have faced challenges including overcrowding, excessive noise and trespassing.

“With the new redeveloped school, we shall be able to study in class without disturbance and excel in our studies,” she said.

Cake cutting moment during the launch.

Deserving school

Deputy Executive Director of KCCA Benon Kigenyi described the school as one of the most deserving institutions in Rubaga division.

“To attract the best teachers to a school with classrooms which are bending and leaning is difficult,” he said.

Kigenyi said the authority had approved the project and would monitor construction to ensure quality standards are maintained.

He added that once completed, the school could attract even more learners from surrounding communities.

“This school will become magnetic,” he said.

Meanwhile, Roofings Group CEO Sheikh Arif said the company hopes the project will inspire more Ugandans to support underserved communities through education.

“If we all stood and gave assistance where help is needed, our country will be a betterplace to live in,” he said.

For the children who erupted in celebration at the unveiling ceremony, however, the future already feels different.