St Henry’s Kitovu marks 104 years, celebrates centenary of Brothers’ educational service
The fraternity of the school also celebrated the school’s patron saint’s day and 100 years of the dynamic presence and Christian educational ministry of the Brothers of Christian Instruction, who administer it. The colourful celebrations took place at the school at Kitovu, Masaka City.
The main building of St. Henry's College Kitovu, which celebrated its 104th anniversary on July 18, 2026. (Photo by Mathias Mazinga)
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July 18 (2026) will always be remembered with great happiness by the family and associates of St. Henry’s College Kitovu (SHACK). The day marked 104 years of the school’s inception.
The fraternity of the school also celebrated the school’s patron saint’s day and 100 years of the dynamic presence and Christian educational ministry of the Brothers of Christian Instruction, who administer it. The colourful celebrations took place at the school at Kitovu, Masaka City.
The headteacher of the school, Bro. Martin Wanambwa made very informative remarks about SHACK and the Brothers of Christian Instruction.
The Headteacher of SHACK, Bro. Wanambwa Martin delivers his thanksgiving speech. (Photo by Mathias Mazinga)
“Today, we gather to celebrate a remarkable legacy – the Patron Saint’s Day and 104 glorious years of God’s unfailing grace upon this institution. We remember with deep appreciation the founders, benefactors, administrators, teachers, students, parents and friends whose sacrifices have shaped the college into a beacon of excellence it is today.”
“Our celebration is inspired by the enduring witness of St. Henry, whose life reminds us that genuine greatness is not measured by wealth, power or privilege, but by humble service, unwavering integrity, compassionate leadership and unshakable commitment to the common good. His example continues to illuminate our path, inviting each one of us to become instruments of hope, justice and love in our communities.”
Wanambwa then gave the history of the Brothers in Uganda.
“The Brothers of Christian Instruction arrived in Uganda on August 4, 1926. They came from Canada at the invitation of the White Fathers, who wanted them to help provide quality Christian education, to take charge of the administration and teaching in Catholic schools, and to train young people academically, morally and spiritually. The first 4 Brothers to arrive were Bro. Charles Jules Poitras, Bro. Joachim Leon, Bro Eugene Paquette, and Bro. Stanislaus Taileffer. On arrival, they took over administration of St. Mary’s College Kisubi (SMACK). From there, they expanded their educational mission across Uganda.”
SHACK'S staff members sharing a photo moment with the priests after Mass. (Photo by Mathias Mazinga)
“The Brothers are celebrating 100 years of their service in Uganda under the theme: We remember, we celebrate, we believe. We honour the pioneer Brothers for their legacy of Christian education. We give thanks for a century of service. We re-affirm our faith and commitment to continue serving, forming young people through Christian education.”
Bro. Wanambwa said the grand climax of the celebration will be at Mount St. Teresa Kisubi (the Brothers’ Headquarters) on September 5, 2026.
He appealed to the stakeholders and all Ugandans of goodwill to support the Brothers’ centennial project, the proposed sh6bn community house for the elderly and sick Brothers to be constructed at Kisubi. He then declared sh50m and sh6.6m, which the parents and members of staff of SHACK, respectively, had donated towards the project.
The Brothers of Christian Instruction led by Bro. Casio Aizire (fifth-left) and the Catholic priests, cutting cake in celebration of the 104th anniversary of St. Henry's College Kitovu and the centenary of the presence of their religious institute in Uganda. (Photo by Mathias Mazinga)
The scientific function started with the planting of memorial trees and the official blessing and commissioning of the school’s new dining hall. Fr. Peter Paul Ssemakula (who represented Bishop Serverus Jjumba) presided over the thanksgiving mass during which he also confirmed students. The mass was concelebrated by Fr. Francis Kiggundu (the chaplain), the Masaka diocesan education secretary Fr. Michael Kamulegeya, Fr. Lawrence Ssebanakitta, Fr. Dr Tamale Mugagga, and Fr. Achilles Lukwago.
Insightful Messages
Fr. Ssemakula urged the students of SHACK to be true witnesses of Christ. “You should have something that tells others your Christian identity,” he said.
The SHACK Board Chairman, Fr. Dr Tamale Mugagga and his Vice, Regina Kitaka, encouraged the stakeholders to remain true to the school and its rich culture of faith, learning, character, excellence and selfless leadership.
The chaplain of SHACK, Fr. Francis Kiggundu, delivers his thanksgiving remarks. (Photo by Mathias Mazinga)
Provincial’s Gratitude/Counsel
The Provincial Superior of the Brothers, Bro. Casio Aizire (the Chief Guest) thanked the founders and successive administrators of SHACK, the Bishops of Masaka and all those who supported the Brothers' ministry.
He appreciated Bishop Serverus Jjumba of Masaka in a special way, for loving, supporting and taking care of the Brothers. He further thanked the government for loving/supporting the ministry and educational institutions of the Brothers.
He urged the parents to support, guide and pray for their children, the teachers to believe in their students and be available to them, and the students to open the doors/gates of success within them.
The Provincial Superior of the Brothers, Bro. Casio Aizire delivers his thanksgiving remarks. (Photo by Mathias Mazinga)
Aizire finally invited all Ugandans to attend the centenary celebration of the Brothers at Mount St. Teresa Kisubi on September 5, 2026. He also appealed for cash donations towards the Brothers’ centennial monument.
Highlights
The function was laden with entertainment highlights, including a poem titled Brothers Rather Fathers, recited by Aaron Ddamulira (S6 student).
The school’s acapella ensemble, Harmonics Acapella, and the brass band also marvelled many guests.