Ntare School set for 70th anniversary celebrations
Among the dignitaries expected to grace the celebrations are the most prominent old boys of the school, President Yoweri Museveni and his Rwandan counterpart Paul Kagame, whose lifelong association with Ntare has become part of the school's rich history.
Over the last seven decades, Ntare School has built a reputation as a centre of academic excellence, discipline, sports and leadership. (Credit: X/@Ntare_School)
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Ntare School, one of Uganda's most prestigious educational institutions, is set for its 70th anniversary celebrations on Saturday (July 25) in Uganda's western city of Mbarara, a milestone marking academic excellence, leadership and service.
The event is expected to bring together old boys, students, educators and distinguished guests.
Among the dignitaries expected to grace the celebrations are the most prominent old boys of the school, President Yoweri Museveni and his Rwandan counterpart Paul Kagame, whose lifelong association with Ntare has become part of the school's rich history.
The school administration earlier indicated that their anticipated attendance underscores the institution's influence in shaping leaders beyond Uganda's borders.
Founded in 1956 by Scottish educator William Crichton, Ntare School has built a reputation as a centre of academic excellence, discipline, sports and leadership.
For decades, the school has produced generations of influential personalities who have served Uganda and the region in politics, business, academia, the judiciary and public service.
The celebrations will also witness the unveiling of a new state-of-the-art school gate, while a commemorative publication titled Legacy of the Lion documents the school's remarkable journey through personal stories and historical milestones.
Current headteacher Saul Rwampororo described the anniversary as an opportunity to celebrate the institution's proud heritage while laying the foundation for its future.
"This anniversary is about reconnection and shared purpose," Rwampororo said during the launch of the celebrations recently.
"It gives us a moment to reflect on our proud history while also engaging alumni and partners to help shape the next chapter of the Ntare story."
Rwampororo noted that the school continues to uphold the values of discipline, integrity and service that have defined Ntare for seven decades, adding that the anniversary presents an opportunity to strengthen partnerships that will support infrastructure development, mentorship programmes and improved learning opportunities for future generations.
Apollo Kashanku, the chairman of the Ntare School Old Boys Association (NSOBA), said the 70-year milestone is not only a celebration of past achievements, but also a call for alumni to invest in the school's future.
"As Ntare marks 70 years of excellence, we are reflecting on a legacy built on discipline, integrity and service. More importantly, we are reaffirming our commitment to the future, inviting all alumni and partners to be part of what comes next," he said.
Over the years, Ntare School has earned a reputation as a cradle of leadership.
Besides Presidents Museveni and Kagame, the institution has produced several prominent Ugandans, including former Prime Minister Amama Mbabazi, the late Eriya Kategaya, John Nasasira, Prof Ephraim Kamuntu, Elioda Tumwesigye, Tarsis Kabwegyere, Fred Ruhindi and James Nsaba Buturo.
Other distinguished alumni include former Deputy Prime Minister Patrick Mazimhaka of Rwanda, the late former Chief of Defence Intelligence Nobel Mayombo, educationist Prof. Elly Katunguka, and retired Justice Jotham Tumwesigye.
The school's influence extends beyond politics, with its old boys making significant contributions in medicine, engineering, academia, literature, diplomacy, entrepreneurship and sports.
Its motto "Better Your Best" continues to inspire generations of learners to pursue excellence in every field.
As Ntare School celebrates seven decades of existence, Saturday's event is expected to be more than a reunion.
It will be a celebration of an institution whose impact has transcended classrooms to influence national and regional leadership, while reaffirming a commitment to nurturing future generations guided by excellence, discipline and service.