Kitovu OBs honoured for role in development

MASAKA - Some 13 former students of St. Henry's College Kitovu have been recognized for their contribution to the development of country.

They received the Meritorious Award for excelling in their professions.

One of the recipients was Buganda Kingdom prime minister (Katikiro) Charles Peter Mayiga.  Veteran Ugandan footballer Polly Ouma and ex-aspiring president Francis Bwengye were also awarded.

Speaking during the annual School Day, Ugandan vice president Edward Kiwanuka Ssekandi called upon institutions in Uganda to adopt the system of diversifying education in order to create a cohesive society and a strong economy that will secure the future prosperity of the country.

"Having an equitable, inclusive education system is fundamental to achieving Uganda's Vision 2040," he said.

Veteran Ugandan footballer Polly Ouma was also recognized. (Credit: Abbey Ramadhan)

On his part, Mayiga cautioned parents to be mindful of the schools they send their children to ensure they impact positively on their lives long after they leave.

The Buganda premier said education is not about passing the English language or mathematics but rather to impart knowledge and skills and also identify the talents of students such as music, dance and drama, among others that can contribute to the development of the country.

"Schools should not separate students according to their academic performance but should instead identify the strengths and weaknesses of students and train them accordingly so that they succeed in the area of their strength."

During the function, 22 students of the school were confirmed by the Archbishop of Mbarara diocese His Grace Paul Bakyenga who assured them that they had become "soldiers of Christ".

The Archbishop of Mbarara diocese his grace Paul Bakyenga receiving offertory during mass celebrating Kitovu's annual School Day. (Credit: Abbey Ramadhan)

Kitovu's headmaster Brother Augustine Mugabo hailed the government for supporting the school over the years and appealed to the ministry of education to consider the college among the traditional schools for renovation.

VP Ssekandi planted and watered a memorial tree as Archbishop Paul Bakyenga, Katikiro Mayiga and others applauded. (Credit: Abbey Ramadhan)