WAKISO.
The Katikkiro of Buganda Kingdom , Mr Charles Peter Mayiga, has urged students and leaders of King’s College Budo to preserve the school’s rich heritage and uphold excellence following the commissioning of a new multi-billion shilling academic block named after Ssekabaka Daudi Chwa II.
Speaking during the commissioning ceremony at the Wakiso-based institution on Sunday, Mr Mayiga said the new Sekabaka Daudi building reflects the school’s commitment to honouring its historical roots while preparing future generations for leadership.
“I am happy to return to King’s College Budo once again. I was here in August 2024 for the opening of Australia House, where I appealed to the leadership to consider constructing a building in remembrance of Sekabaka Daudi Chwa II,” Mr Mayiga said.
He noted that the construction of the building demonstrated that the school leadership had acted on the call to recognise the historical contribution of Daudi Chwa II and the Buganda Kingdom to the founding and growth of the institution.
“I am deeply happy to return today and witness that this request was not only received but acted upon,” he added.
Mr Mayiga said commissioning the facility sends a strong message that the college values its legacy, describing legacy as the mark individuals and institutions leave behind for future generations.
He emphasised Buganda Kingdom’s long-standing commitment to education, noting that the kingdom has historically provided land for the establishment of several prestigious schools and institutions, including secondary schools, nursing training centres, tertiary institutions and a chartered university.
“Education remains one of the most important investments any society can make for its future,” he said, commending the school’s improving infrastructure and learning environment, which he said play a critical role in shaping students’ aspirations and mindset.
The head teacher of King’s College Budo, Mr John Fred Kazibwe, said the institution has focused on achieving financial sustainability while maintaining strong academic performance.
“I am a lawyer and a manager, but I enjoy teaching. I have been in teaching for 33 years, and there is nothing as fulfilling as seeing young people grow into responsible citizens,” Mr Kazibwe said.
He explained that since assuming leadership, the school administration has expanded facilities and increased student enrolment to strengthen its financial base. Student numbers have grown from 1,780 to 2,600 learners, alongside a significant increase in the school’s budget, enabling it to finance development projects internally.
Among recent developments are new dormitories, expanded classroom facilities and improved sanitation infrastructure, which he said have enhanced student welfare without compromising academic standards.
Mr Kazibwe attributed the progress to collaboration among stakeholders, including government, the Buganda Kingdom, the Church, the Board of Governors, the Parents Teachers Association, and both teaching and non-teaching staff.
The Archbishop of the Church of Uganda, the Most Rev Stephen Samuel Kazimba Mugalu, emphasised gratitude and unity as essential pillars in building lasting legacy.
Drawing from the New Testament, Archbishop Kazimba urged students and staff to remember and appreciate those who support them, noting that people often focus more on those who hurt them than those who uplift them.
Reflecting on his installation on March 1, 2020, he said although the Covid-19 pandemic disrupted two years of his tenure, the period became a foundation for transformation, describing setbacks as opportunities for renewal.
He added that true transformation begins with the conversion of the head, heart and hands, leading to positive change in homes, schools and communities.
“As the college unveiled the Sekabaka Daudi building, we agreed that legacy is not merely about structures but about shaping minds and character,” he said.
The newly commissioned multi-billion shilling Sekabaka Daudi building houses 38 e-learning classrooms aimed at enhancing digital learning and expanding academic opportunities at the historic institution.