Although Budo is a government-aided institution, it was founded by the Anglican Church and remains closely tied to Namirembe Diocese, which exerts considerable influence over its management.
The contest to replace outgoing headteacher John Fred Kazibwe at King’s College Budo has entered a decisive phase, with alumni and parents lining up behind different contenders ahead of next month’s leadership transition.
Kazibwe, 59, is due to retire upon reaching the mandatory age of 60, setting the stage for a succession process that has stirred intense lobbying among old boys, church leaders and sections of the parent body.
The Front-Runners
Education sector insiders indicate that the race has narrowed to three names:
- David Ssenkungu, currently headteacher of Ndejje Senior Secondary School;
- Peter Hormisdas Ssenyimba, who leads Luzira Secondary School;
- And the school’s deputy headteacher, Godfrey Kasamba.
Each candidate is said to command backing from influential constituencies, reflecting differing visions for the future of the century-old institution.
Alumni Divided
Ssenyimba, himself a former student of Budo, appears to enjoy significant support among sections of the alumni. He previously served as deputy headteacher at the school under the late Patrick Bakka Male, who died in 2021 at Mulago Hospital after suffering a stroke.
Supporters describe Ssenyimba as an administrator of integrity with a firm grasp of the school’s traditions and ethos — qualities they argue are essential to restoring academic performance and discipline.
Ssenkungu, meanwhile, is credited with experience managing large secondary schools, a factor some stakeholders view as critical given Budo’s growing student population. However, some alumni have reportedly voiced concerns over alleged past controversies, which could complicate his bid.
Kasamba is widely seen as the continuity candidate. Having served as deputy headteacher, his backers argue that his familiarity with the school’s internal systems positions him well to ensure a smooth transition.
Petition to the Bishop
The race intensified after a section of Budonians and parents petitioned the Bishop of Namirembe Diocese, Moses Banja, urging that the next headteacher must be an old boy to safeguard the school’s legacy, discipline and academic standards.
Although Budo is a government-aided institution, it was founded by the Anglican Church and remains closely tied to Namirembe Diocese, which exerts considerable influence over its management.
Longstanding Concerns
The current contest is unfolding against a backdrop of broader concerns about the school’s direction.
In a letter dated July 18, 2024, a group of alumni and parents wrote to the diocese highlighting issues ranging from surging enrolment to strained infrastructure and alleged mismanagement of major construction projects.
Originally built to accommodate 900 students, the school now hosts more than 2,000 — a surge critics say has overstretched dormitories, classrooms and sanitation facilities. Senior One intake alone has reportedly jumped from about 200 students six years ago to more than 500 today.
Petitioners argue that the rapid expansion, without proportional investment in facilities, has contributed to declining academic performance, hygiene challenges and disruptions to school routines, including phased meal schedules.
A Delicate Balance
With only weeks to the handover, observers say the final decision will test the balance between church tradition, alumni influence and government oversight.
Whoever emerges victorious will inherit not only a prestigious legacy but also the task of addressing mounting expectations from a divided yet deeply invested school community.
