Namasagali College’s legendary Fr Grimes dies

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Father Damien Grimes, the legendary headteacher of Kamuli district-based Namasagali College has died. Namasagali College was Uganda's arts hub under Grimes times producing several media personalities.

Reports reaching New Vision Online indicate that Fr Grimes, under whose tutelage and stewardship several prominent artists and artistes were nurtured, passed on September 4, 2024.

Grimes, who served the Mill Hill Missionaries (MHM) in Uganda for 41 years, and was a former headteacher of Namilyango College, peacefully passed on aged 93 in his home country, UK, according to a statement released by the Namasagali College Alumni Association.

The statement indicates that Grime’s death marks the end of a remarkable life dedicated to education and spiritual guidance, leaving behind a legacy that will inspire generations to come.

The born of 1931, Grimes arrived in Uganda in 1959, armed with a deep sense of purpose and a commitment to shaping young minds.

Below is an account of Fr Grimes' life, according to a statement issued immediately after his death:

His journey began at Namilyango College, where he laid the foundation for what would become an illustrious career in education. However, it was at Namasagali College, where he served as headteacher from 1967 to 2000, that Father Grimes truly left an indelible mark. 

Namasagali College, under Father Grimes's stewardship, was more than just a school; it was a nurturing ground for Uganda's future leaders. His innovative approach to education, characterised by a unique blend of academic rigor and extracurricular excellence, set Namasagali apart.

The school became renowned for its vibrant student government system, a microcosm of real-world governance that instilled in students a sense of responsibility, leadership, and civic duty. Father Grimes's vision extended beyond the classroom. He recognised the importance of holistic development, ensuring that students excelled in sports, the arts, and spiritual growth. The introduction of computer studies in 1985, the establishment of Uganda's first school swimming pool, and the emphasis on drama and public speaking are just a few examples of his forward-thinking approach.

His efforts produced not only scholars but well-rounded individuals prepared to face the challenges of life. As an alumnus of Namasagali College, I, Rev. Fr. Dr. Cornelius Wambi Gulere, along with my brother Nicholas Kisiigha and many others from our home, had the privilege of being moulded by Father Grimes.

His teachings went beyond academics; they were life lessons. We learned the value of punctuality, duty, and integrity. We were reminded that while others may occupy our places when we are gone, it is our responsibility to build a strong foundation that will withstand the storms of life. Father Grimes's influence was not confined to Uganda. Even after retiring to the UK in 2002, he remained connected to his former students, many of whom gathered in Formby, Liverpool, to celebrate with him.

His 92nd birthday party on September 11, 2023, was a moment of nostalgia, laughter, and gratitude as we reflected on the profound impact he had on our lives. His humility shone through as he attributed his achievements to God, reminding us all to give thanks where it is due.

Father Grimes weathered the storms of different regimes in Uganda, remaining steadfast in his mission to educate and uplift. His memoir, Uganda: My Mission, published in 2016, chronicles his journey and the challenges he faced, offering insights into the man behind the mission.

As we bid farewell to this great man, we do so with a deep sense of gratitude. Father Grimes, you have run your race with unwavering faith and dedication. Your memory is eternal, and your legacy will continue to inspire generations. Rest in peace, dear Father, knowing that you have left an indelible mark on the hearts and minds of all who had the privilege to know you. In Memoriam: Father Damien Grimes (1931-2024).

May your soul find eternal rest.

Biography of Father Damien Grimes

Early life and education

Father Damien Grimes was born on January 15, 1931, in Liverpool, England. From an early age, he demonstrated a strong inclination towards both faith and education, which would shape his future endeavours.

After completing his primary and secondary education, he pursued higher education at the University of Glasgow, where he graduated with Honours in Education. His spiritual journey led him to St Joseph's College, Mill Hill, London, where he completed a four-year theology course, and then to Mill Hill College in Roosendaal, the Netherlands, where he undertook a two-year Philosophy course.

He was ordained as a priest in 1955 August 4th at the age of 24, joining the Mill Hill Missionaries, a British Roman Catholic missionary society dedicated to global missionary work.

Missionary Work in Uganda

Father Grimes arrived in Uganda in 1959, marking the beginningofa41-year journey that would profoundly impact the nation. His first assignment was at Namilyango College, Uganda's first secondary school, established by the Mill Hill Missionaries in 1902. As a young and enthusiastic educator, Father Grimes played a pivotal role in setting up the A-level section at Namilyango College, a significant achievement that enhanced the school's academic reputation. His dedication to improving educational standards quickly earned him the respect of both his peers and students. Leadership at Namasagali College.

In 1967, Father Grimes was appointed Headteacher of Kamuli College, which was later renamed Namasagali College. The school was in a dire state when he took over, housed in the former railway and port site of the East Africa Railways Harbor, which had been abandonedin1962.Undeterred by the challenges, Father Grimes embarked on a mission to transform the school into a centre of excellence.

He recruited skilled teachers from the UK, including volunteers from the British Council’s Voluntary Service Overseas (VSO) programme. One of these volunteers was Jon Snow, who would later become a renowned British TV news anchor. Father Grimes' innovative approach to education was evident in the unique student government system he established, which mirror the legal and administrative structure of the UK. This system not only empowered students but also instilled in them a deep sense of responsibility and leadership.

Under his leadership, Namasagali College became known for its rigorous academic standards and diverse extracurricular programs, including sports, drama, elocution, and computer studies.

In 1985, the school became the first in- Uganda to introduce computer studies, thanks to Father Grimes’ initiative. By the early 1970s, Namasagali College had grown to accommodate over 1,000 students, attracting some of the brightest minds in the country. The school became a beacon of educational excellence, with its students consistently excelling in national exams and securing placements in prestigious universities, including Makerere University.