Kampala, Uganda: Uganda’s education sector continues to mourn the passing of Kizito Mukalazi, the founder and director of Hormisdallen Schools, whose decades-long contribution to learning and youth development has been described as transformative.
His death, confirmed on Friday by the institution, has drawn widespread tributes from education stakeholders, cultural leaders and former students, many hailing him as a pioneer of private primary education in Uganda.
In a statement, Hormisdallen Schools expressed deep sorrow at the loss of its founder, describing him as a dedicated educationist and mentor.
“It is with profound sorrow and heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved director… We are united in grief yet grateful for a legacy that lives on,” the statement read.
The school did not immediately disclose the cause of death, but burial arrangements are set for April 28.
A towering legacy in Hormisdallen Schools
Mukalazi founded Hormisdallen Schools on February 12, 1986, at a time when private primary education in Uganda was still developing. What began as a single school has grown into a network of campuses in Kamwokya, Kyebando, Gayaza and Kiteezi.
Over nearly four decades, the institution built a strong reputation for academic excellence, particularly in the Primary Leaving Examinations administered by the Uganda National Examinations Board, consistently ranking among top-performing schools.
Beyond academics, Mukalazi championed a holistic model of education, integrating sports, discipline, leadership training and character development into school programmes.
His influence extended beyond the classroom into community and youth empowerment initiatives, including partnerships with URA Football Club, which used the Gayaza campus as a training base for over a decade.
The Katikkiro of Buganda, Charles Peter Mayiga, paid tribute to Mukalazi, describing him as a committed supporter of the Kingdom and an active contributor to cultural development programmes.
Mayiga highlighted his role in hosting the Ekisaakaate initiative, a youth programme that promotes cultural values, leadership and discipline among young people.
Education stakeholders say Mukalazi’s work helped expand access to quality education and shaped the evolution of Uganda’s private schooling system during a critical period of growth.
His passing marks the end of an era for one of Uganda’s most recognised education brands, leaving behind a legacy defined by academic excellence, discipline, and service to community.
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