What you need to know:
- According to Ms Nantagya, the proposed Diamond Complex forms a critical part of the institution’s strategic plan to deliver facilities that support academic learning, physical education, and creative talents. Once complete, the multi-purpose facility will house a performing arts theatre, a gymnasium, a 1,000-seat auditorium, and a modern computer centre.
The Minister of State for Trade, Industry and Cooperatives, Mr David Bahati, has called for stronger collaboration between schools, parents, and religious institutions in instilling discipline and moral values among children.
Speaking at Mengo Senior School during an alumni meeting organised to raise funds for the construction of the school's Diamond Complex, Mr Bahati emphasised that this collaborative approach is essential to preparing responsible citizens who can drive national development.
Mr Bahati noted that education should focus not only on academic achievement but also on developing integrity, patriotism, and competence—attributes he described as crucial in tackling challenges such as corruption and incompetence.
“If somebody is given the right values, we would not be talking about corruption or incompetence,” Mr Bahati said.
He commended Mengo Senior School for prioritising discipline and holistic education, noting that its enrolment of nearly 8,000 learners underscores the necessity for continuous investment in infrastructure and youth development.
“Human capital development is a key element under our National Development Plan IV. These young people will need jobs, skills and guidance, and they must be nurtured to contribute meaningfully to national development,” Mr Bahati added.
He noted that Uganda's rapidly growing population necessitates greater investment in education and skills training to prepare young people for employment and broader opportunities. He also praised the school administration for appointing a deputy head teacher specifically dedicated to overseeing discipline, highlighting the significance of such roles in shaping character.
The head teacher of Mengo Senior School, Ms Grace Sebanakita Nantagya, explained that the school is building on its 130-year legacy as it seeks to expand and modernise facilities to accommodate its expanding student body. She noted that the anniversary, celebrated last year, offered an opportunity for the school community to reflect on its history and chart a path forward.
According to Ms Nantagya, the proposed Diamond Complex forms a critical part of the institution’s strategic plan to deliver facilities that support academic learning, physical education, and creative talents. Once complete, the multi-purpose facility will house a performing arts theatre, a gymnasium, a 1,000-seat auditorium, and a modern computer centre.
However, financing the ambitious project remains a hurdle.
“We want to create an environment where all our learners can study, participate in extracurricular activities and develop their talents,” Ms Nantagya said.
She expressed gratitude to religious leaders, alumni, parents, and supporters for contributing toward the initiative, specifically acknowledging students who donated portions of their pocket money to the cause. While the foundation has been laid and construction work is underway, Ms Nantagya appealed to well-wishers for further financial assistance to bring the project to completion.
Adding his voice to the cause, the Bishop of Namirembe Diocese, the Right Reverend Moses Banja, commended the school management and stakeholders for their dedication to preserving the institution's legacy. He noted that the initiative demonstrates the power of collective responsibility in sustaining long-standing institutions and urged alumni, parents, and well-wishers to remain steadfast in supporting the project until the new complex is fully realized.