MOBA President Daniel Mushabe (3rd left) and Busoga Diocesan Bishop Paul Samson Naimanhye (2nd left) pose for a group photograph with some of the old boys of Busoga College Mwiri and leaders after commissioning the gate at the school on Saturday. (Photo by Donald Kiirya)

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JINJA - Works ministry commissioner in charge of urban roads, Joseph Kiwanuka Mukibi, has hailed the Mwiri Old Boys Association (MOBA) for constructing a state-of-the-art multimillion main gate during the school's 114th homecoming celebrations.

Representing the works ministry permanent Waiswa Bageya, Mukibi praised the gate as wonderful and committed the ministry to returning next year for the third phase of road upgrades, including 2km of internal roads at the school.

He outlined the ministry's phased approach to local infrastructure: The first phase was completed, the second focused on the main surrounding road, and the third was set to commence in January, enhancing access and connectivity for the historic institution.

The November 1, 2025, event marked a milestone in the school's revival, with the new gate symbolising renewed pride and entry into a legacy of excellence spanning over a century.

The view of Busoga College Mwiri's new gate as seen from outside the school premises. (Photo by Donald Kiirya)

Headteacher Peter Sibukule thanked MOBA for giving them the gate and urged a shift in focus to academics.

He highlighted progress over the past three years, including infrastructure upgrades, human resource reinforcements and government partnerships that secured 500 iron sheets for construction.

Sibukule praised his team's efficiency in managing limited resources, crediting board guidance and community support for transformations like renovated houses and staff sourcing.

Resurrecting Mwiri

Retiring Busoga Diocese bishop Paul Samson Naimanhye drew parallels to the resurrection of Jesus, declaring MOBA's efforts had similarly resurrected the school.

"I'm leaving when the school is back to normal," he said, thanking contributors for the gate and noting the joy of seeing the school thriving after years of challenges.

He urged continued collaboration, emphasising education's role in community unity and legacy preservation.

Board of Governors chairperson Herbert Kyeyamwa reported harmony between administration and leadership, with no conflicts under Sibukule's tenure.

"All is well; the headteacher and his team are working to the expectations of the board," he said.

He added that they are going to prioritise constructing staff housing at the school, emphasise a return to the school's science tradition, and expand sports facilities.

Kyeyamwa implored MOBA to select future projects, such as laboratories or dormitories, to build on the gate's success.

Giving back

MOBA President Daniel Mushabe dismissed critics as idle talk from those who failed to make it there, affirming the association's unwavering commitment.

"We are giving back to the school that gave us so much," he said, clarifying that contributions come from alumni initiatives, not school fees or taxpayer funds.

Mushabe highlighted the gate's symbolism for the 114-year-old institution and other unseen efforts, including tarmac roads, asbestos removal from all nine dormitories, iron sheet replacements, and cricket championships.

"This gate portrays standing on history," he added, vowing no turning back despite scrutiny.

Parents and Teachers Association chairperson Stephen Wakasenza outlined a five-year strategic plan targeting infrastructure assessments, staff retention, classrooms, laboratories, and sports facilities.

"Our vision for growth can only be realised by collective effort," he said, pledging PTA's partnership with the board, MOBA, and administration to ensure academic excellence and a modest yet comprehensive education.

The homecoming underscored MOBA's leadership in rehabilitating dining halls, dormitories (nearly 8 out of 10 completed), and labs, boosting student confidence and performance.

Attendees celebrated the school's resurgence, with calls for sustained alumni giving, government support, and community involvement to propel Busoga College Mwiri toward greater heights in education and infrastructure.