UPDF MPs Donate Shs98 Million Girls’ Dormitory to Airforce Secondary School in Entebbe

Speaking at the handover event, Gen Wilson Mbadi, the Chairperson of the UPDF Caucus in Parliament, emphasized the MPs' collective desire to leave a lasting impact.

Jan 29, 2025 - 16:34
 0
UPDF MPs Donate Shs98 Million Girls’ Dormitory to Airforce Secondary School in Entebbe

Entebbe, Uganda – In a remarkable show of commitment to education and community development, Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) representatives in the 11th Parliament have constructed and donated a state-of-the-art girls' dormitory worth Shs98 million to Airforce Secondary School in Entebbe. The dormitory, with a capacity to accommodate 200 students, was funded by the monthly salary contributions of the 10 UPDF MPs and was officially handed over to the school on Tuesday, January 30, 2024, in a ceremony graced by key military and government officials.

Speaking at the handover event, Gen Wilson Mbadi, the Chairperson of the UPDF Caucus in Parliament, emphasized the MPs' collective desire to leave a lasting impact.

“We decided we must leave something to be remembered for as Members of Parliament representing the UPDF. We set a flat rate and contributed each month so that when we get a substantial figure, we decide what to do with it. We chose education and health, and especially the vulnerable girls who might not have an environment to stay safely,” Gen Mbadi said.

He further noted that this contribution was a way of giving back to the community that entrusted them with leadership.

Meanwhile, the State Minister for Defence in charge of Veteran Affairs, Hon. Huda Oleru Abason, hailed the UPDF MPs for their selflessness and commitment to the welfare of young girls, recognizing that female students have unique needs that require urgent attention.

“I must thank you for this gesture. You know girls have more special needs than the boys, and by constructing a dormitory, you have solved some of the needs for these learners,” she stated.

Hon. Oleru further encouraged other leaders and citizens to emulate the MPs by complementing government efforts in improving education infrastructure across the country. 

The initiative received high praise from senior UPDF officials, who emphasized the importance of education in shaping future leaders and boosting the morale of soldiers whose children benefit from the school.

Maj Gen David Isimbwa, the Deputy Commander of the UPDF Air Force, commended the MPs for their generosity and noted that the impact of their contribution would be felt for generations.

“This is only from 10 MPs. If you can contribute a dormitory housing around 200 students, then it speaks volumes. For many years to come, it will help students of not only soldiers but also communities around the school,” Maj Gen Isimbwa remarked.

Similarly, Brig David Gonyi, Chief of Staff of the UPDF Air Force, described the dormitory as a lasting legacy of the MPs’ dedication to education.

“The dormitory is not just brick and mortar, but a contribution and legacy that will last forever. By investing in the welfare of our students, you have underscored the political role that education plays in our lives and in shaping the future of our nation,” Brig Gonyi said.

The UPDF Joint Staff Officer for Formal Education, Sports, and Culture, Brig Richard Karemire, reaffirmed the army’s commitment to ensuring quality education for the children of soldiers.

“Morale is a big factor for a successful army, and we are happy that through this donation, you are contributing to that. This is how we can put our soldiers at peace and, in turn, they focus on securing our motherland. I salute our MPs for this great donation. This is not the first time they have done this. They have made tremendous donations, and it is a manifestation of real patriotism and love for our forces,” Brig Karemire stated.

Despite this generous contribution, the Headmaster of Airforce Secondary School, Maj Nathan Ampaire, highlighted the pressing need for more infrastructure to accommodate the growing student population, which currently stands at 2,500 learners.

“We have only 17 classrooms, but we need a total of 40 classrooms. We also would like to have a library for at least 500 students. Nevertheless, we thank the UPDF MPs for the dormitory that will now be a home away from home, fostering the education of these girls,” Maj Ampaire said.

The UPDF MPs’ gesture has set a powerful precedent in complementing government efforts to improve education infrastructure. The need for additional support, particularly in constructing classrooms, a science laboratory, a library, and a computer laboratory, remains a challenge that requires concerted efforts from both the public and private sectors.

The handover ceremony was attended by several UPDF representatives in Parliament, including Lt Gen James Mugira, Col Victoria Nekesa, and Lt Col Dr. Jenifer Alanyo, among others.

The donation of a Shs98 million girls’ dormitory by UPDF MPs to Airforce Secondary School in Entebbe is a significant milestone in promoting education, especially for vulnerable girls. Their contribution not only provides a safe and conducive learning environment but also serves as an inspiration for other leaders to invest in the future of Ugandan children.

As the school continues to grow, more partnerships and support will be crucial in addressing the existing infrastructure challenges, ensuring that every learner gets access to quality education in a safe and well-equipped environment.

John Kusolo John Kusolo is a Ugandan Journalist, Sport fanatic, Tourist, Pastor, and Motivational Speaker. * Journalist: He works for Nile Chronicles News, NCN. * Passion: Known for his dedication to his work and strong motivation. * Ambitious: He sets goals for himself and strives to achieve them. * Enjoys challenges: He thrives in challenging situations.