The First Lady commended Seeta College for embracing the Lower Secondary Competence-Based Curriculum early, highlighting practical student projects such as brick-making, which have contributed to the construction of school facilities.
Seeta College Mwanyanjiri in Mukono District has received a major boost towards its planned science laboratory after the First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, Janet Kataha Museveni, contributed sh100m to the project.
The donation was announced on Friday during a fundraising event held at the school, which is also the former institution of the Archbishop of the Church of Uganda, Dr. Stephen Kazimba Mugalu.
School leaders say the planned science block is part of broader efforts to strengthen the teaching of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) and align learning with the country’s competence-based curriculum.
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While addressing stakeholders, Mrs. Museveni underscored the importance of investing in facilities that support practical learning.
She noted that the ongoing education reforms emphasize hands-on skills, innovation, and problem-solving, adding that well-equipped laboratories are essential in achieving these goals.
The First Lady commended Seeta College for embracing the Lower Secondary Competence-Based Curriculum early, highlighting practical student projects such as brick-making, which have contributed to the construction of school facilities.
According to headteacher Yudaya Mukulembeze, learners have produced bricks used to build classroom blocks, a perimeter wall, sanitation facilities, and other infrastructure within the school.
Mrs. Museveni said such initiatives demonstrate how the curriculum is equipping learners with practical skills, digital knowledge, and the ability to adapt to a changing global environment.
She, however, warned against poor maintenance of school infrastructure.
“A lot of money is invested in such infrastructure, only for it to be vandalized and fall into disrepair. I urge students and administrators to safeguard these facilities so they can last longer,” she said.
The school has also recorded growth in enrollment and improved academic performance, particularly in science subjects, earning praise as a rising model institution in the area.
Mrs. Museveni called on parents, school leaders, and other stakeholders to actively support the implementation of the competence-based curriculum, stressing the importance of guidance and counselling to support learners.
She also urged students to remain disciplined and focused despite challenges associated with the digital age.
In appreciation, the First Lady thanked Archbishop Kazimba for his continued support to the school, alongside the Board of Governors, Parent-Teacher Association, and the wider community.
“I am sowing my seed of sh100m and encouraging others to join this noble cause,” she said.
The headteacher, Yudaya Mukulembeze revealed that the proposed science block is estimated to cost sh2 billion, noting that the current laboratory—constructed in 1955—is no longer adequate for the growing student population.
She said enrollment has increased from 266 students in 2018 when she joined the school to 1,163 currently.
Despite the limitations, the school registered academic success, including a student who scored 20 points in Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, and ICT in last year’s UACE examinations.
Founded in 1955 by three families as a community school, Seeta College was later handed over to the government in 1985.
Archbishop Kazimba, an old student, said the school has educated many Ugandans and students from across the region over its 70-year history. He cited former Tanzanian President Ali Hassan Mwinyi among its notable alumni.
“I am grateful that you accepted to preside over this function and support my former school. May God reward you abundantly,” he said.
The Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Education, Dr. Kedrace Turyagyenda, praised the initiative to construct a modern laboratory, noting that it reflects a clear vision for the future.
She reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to ensuring that all learners access quality education in conducive environments and urged headteachers to prioritize effective teaching and assessment.
Prof. Lugujjo recalled that when he joined the school in 1959, it had a significant number of foreign students from Tanzania, Malawi, Zambia, and other countries.
“At the time, Uganda was a Protectorate with established private education, unlike many neighboring countries, which is the reason why many foreign students came here,” he said.
The event attracted several dignitaries, including State Minister for Higher Education Dr. John Chrysostom Muyingo, Mukono Diocese Bishop Enos Kitto Kagodo, Canon Dr. Charles Kahigiriza, the Ndejje University secretary and headteachers from across the district.
Several individuals and institutions also contributed funds towards the project. Archbishop Kazimba and his wife, Margaret, donated sh10m, while PDG Emmanuel Katongole contributed the same amount. The Mukono District Church of Uganda Headteachers’ Association and Bishop Senior School each gave sh5m, while Gayaza Junior School contributed sh1.5m.
Other contributors included Dr. Muyingo, former minister Ronald Kibuule, and Prof. Eriabu Lugujjo, who each gave sh1 million. The Church of Uganda Education Department contributed sh10m Dr. Kahigiriza sh500,000, and Ndejje Secondary School sh1 million, among others.
The fundraising drive is expected to continue as stakeholders mobilize resources to complete the modern science facility.
