First Lady Janet Museveni inaugurates historic Mbarara High School Addis Ababa Dormitory

The First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, Mrs Janet Kataha Museveni, presided over the commissioning and handover ceremony of the newly constructed historical Mbarara High School Addis Ababa Dormitory, which will accommodate up to 300 students, was constructed at a cost of UGX 1.8 billion, according to authorities.

During the event, Deputy Speaker of Parliament Thomas Tayebwa read a message from the First Lady, who praised the efforts of the Old Boys and the Foundation Body for their collaborative work with the Ministry of Education and Sports in fostering the growth of Mbarara High School. Mrs Museveni expressed her sincere appreciation for the courage and determination displayed by the stakeholders, who embarked on the project in 2017 after a fire incident destroyed the former dormitory in April 2016. She commended their selflessness and noble cause and conveyed her wishes for abundant rewards for their generosity.

Established in 1911, Mbarara High School holds the distinction of being the oldest post-primary school in Western Uganda. Over the years, the school has played a pivotal role in the development of the nation by nurturing numerous professionals and freedom fighters who have contributed to Uganda’s progress.

The First Lady also acknowledged the administration’s commitment to maintaining the school’s facilities and providing education that equips the youth with essential skills for a productive future. She further assured that her ministry would address the issue of Asbestos roofs on some school buildings to eliminate health risks.

Mrs. Museveni emphasized the need for expansion to supplement the efforts of the Old Boys, asserting that the Ministry of Education and Sports would work closely with stakeholders to enhance the school’s facilities. She commended Mbarara High School for leading the implementation of the Revised Lower Secondary Curriculum and supporting vocational subjects, such as Metal Work, Wood Work, Technical Drawing, Agriculture, and Fine Art.

In response to the request for tarmac on Ruharo hill, Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa pledged to allocate funds for tarmacking in the budget for FY 2023/2024, working in collaboration with area members of parliament.

The Chairperson of the Board of Governors, Prof. William Bazeyo, praised the First Lady for her exemplary leadership in Uganda’s education system, which has resulted in an increase in the number of graduates. He also lauded her for championing the new lower secondary curriculum. Prof. Bazeyo expressed gratitude to the old students’ association for their unwavering support to the school administration.

In his address, Dr Mardard Bitekyerezo, the chairman of the old students’ Association, requested the minister to utilize her connections, including her husband, President Yoweri Museveni, to assist the school with pending projects.

Herman Ahimbisibwe, the head teacher of Mbarara High School, expressed his gratitude to the generous Old Boys who contributed to the construction of the Addis Ababa dormitory. The new facility is expected to house up to 360 students and is a testament to the spirit of giving, patriotism, and success instilled in the students. He also highlighted the need to upgrade and expand the metalwork and woodwork workshops for improved learning and production.

Mbarara High School, a boys-only boarding middle and high school, is renowned for its excellent academic record and holds a prestigious position among schools in Uganda.