Kamuli, Uganda: The Kyabazinga of Busoga, William Gabula Nadiope IV, has urged schools across Uganda to prioritise talent identification and development alongside academics to produce well-rounded learners capable of contributing meaningfully to their communities.
In a speech delivered on his behalf by his Permanent Secretary and Busoga Diocese Education Ambassador, Godfrey Samanya, during the annual sports day at Kamuli Girls Boarding Secondary School, the Kyabazinga emphasised the need for schools to go beyond classroom instruction.
“There is a lot schools can do apart from academics. They should go an extra mile to impart practical, soft and general skills to learners which they will apply in their everyday life,” the message read.
The Kyabazinga encouraged institutions to build strong traditions and identities that define their learners, noting that co-curricular activities such as sports and clubs play a critical role in shaping discipline, confidence, and teamwork.
“When a headteacher, despite meagre resources, prioritises talent development in sports, clubs and student participation, it is progressive leadership that produces all-round learners,” he noted.
He further drew parallels between school identity and cultural belonging within Busoga, saying participation in house competitions fosters unity and pride similar to clan affiliations.
School Leadership Speaks
The school’s headteacher, Joy Kasana Muwanika, reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to nurturing confident and well-rounded girls through diverse learning approaches.
“Nurturing girls to grow with dignity, substance and assertiveness requires deliberate investment in activities that build self-esteem, confidence and a competitive spirit,” she said.
Kasana revealed that the school had shifted from animal totems to country-based house identities—Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, and Rwanda—to promote patriotism and broaden students’ outlook.
Team Kenya emerged overall winners of the inaugural house competition with 166 points, followed by Rwanda with 122 points. Uganda and Tanzania secured 99 and 71 points respectively.
Kenya lifted the main trophy alongside a prize goat, while Vanessa Nabirye was named overall best performer, earning a full school bursary. Hilda Mukyala received the headteacher’s award of Shs200,000.
In exhibition matches, female teachers defeated lady parents 1-0, while parents later secured a 1-0 win against teachers in a separate fixture.
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