Alumni of St. Mary’s College Kisubi (SMACK) have taken a historic step toward securing the school’s long-term growth, officially launching the Duc in Altum Endowment Fund with an inaugural donation of UGX 85 million from the Paxtel Mobile Foundation.
The launch event, held at Pope Paul Memorial Centre, was presided over by Archbishop Paul Ssemwogerere, Smack’s titular head. He received the cheque on behalf of the school’s governing bodies before handing it to Dr. Geoffrey Onegi-Obel, chair of the endowment’s management committee. The archbishop praised the alumni for uniting to protect SMACK’s legacy of faith, discipline, and academic excellence.
Formed in March 2024, the endowment brings together the Board of Governors, the Brothers of Christian Instruction, and the 1970s alumni cohort, with the aim of mobilizing resources for SMACK’s infrastructure masterplan. The school, which originally accommodated 900 students but now serves more than 2,400, is pursuing expansion projects to match its rising enrolment.
Planned developments include new dormitories, a modern sports complex, and advanced digital learning facilities, including artificial intelligence labs. These projects are expected to enhance student welfare while equipping learners with skills fit for the modern economy.
Dr. Onegi-Obel described the UGX 85 million donation as “a decisive first step” that demonstrates the power of alumni-driven investment. He called on more stakeholders to contribute, emphasizing that the fund is structured to grow steadily and sustainably.
The initiative signals a shift from relying solely on government or donor aid toward self-driven, alumni-led financing, positioning SMACK as a model for sustainable educational development in Uganda.