The Ssubi Foundation has renovated Gulu High School’s dormitories, including one fully dedicated to visually impaired learners, and built a basketball court, giving the school’s 700 students a new lease on learning and sports excellence.
Gulu, Uganda: Gulu High School in Northern Uganda has unveiled new world-class sports and dormitory facilities, that is expected to transform the learning and living environment for its 700 students, including 30 living with visual impairment.
The facelift, funded by Ssubi Foundation, includes the renovation of three dormitories with a combined capacity of 186 students, one of which is fully dedicated to visually impaired learners and fitted with special needs features.
The school also received a long-awaited basketball court, renovated dining hall, and sports equipment including basketballs and footballs.
“Our students have potential and talent, and this support will help them expand their areas of excellence,” said Headteacher Ms. Betty Mwesigwa Nakyanza, fondly known locally as Aber.
Ms Mwesigwa noted that Gulu High is already the reigning national champion in girls’ football and Paralympics, and the new facilities will open doors for more sporting disciplines.
For visually impaired students, the improvements go beyond aesthetics. Smooth walkways, accessible dormitory designs, and special amenities have been integrated to ensure mobility and safety.
Phillip Nduga, Director of Ssubi Foundation, said the transformation was inspired by the resilience of the Gulu High community.
“When I was introduced to Gulu High School by Gen. Otema, I saw the spirit of hope, potential, and determination, but I also saw the barriers. Dilapidated structures and inadequate sanitary facilities were daily challenges for students with disabilities and visual impairment. We knew we could not turn our backs,” Nduga said.
He praised the Government of Uganda for creating an environment that fosters partnerships between private actors and public institutions, and thanked local leaders for their support.
“These dormitories are not just buildings; they are sanctuaries designed with love and built with accessibility at the core,” he added. “Where we are blessed with resources, we will help you achieve your goals of becoming doctors, educators, and leaders.”
Games and sports teacher Candano Denis said the boost in facilities will help the school identify and nurture talent to international levels.
“Sports keep students disciplined and focused. In two years, we believe some of our athletes will compete internationally,” he said.
Dr. Olara Otunnu, an old boy of the school, urged administrators to maintain high discipline standards while focusing on character and hard work. He commended Ssubi Foundation for revamping the school, which has produced notable figures such as Uganda’s first Prime Minister Dr. Apollo Milton Obote, Bishop Janani Luwum, poet Okot p’Bitek, and several political leaders.
In an emotional gesture, visually impaired students performed a heartfelt song of appreciation to Ssubi Foundation for addressing their unique needs.
With this transformation, Gulu High School is headteacher says the school is poised not only to reclaim its place as a centre of academic and sporting excellence but also as a model of inclusion for learners with disabilities
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