King’s College Budo marks 120-years with colourful celebration on Palm Sunday

WAKISO: POMP and excitement filled Budo Hill in Wakiso district as alumni, students, teachers and government officials gathered to celebrate the remarkable 120-years of King’s College Budo.

The celebrations, characterized by music, dance and drama performances, begun with prayers led by the Rt. Rev. Moses Banja, the Bishop of Namirembe Diocese who lauded the founders and staff of King’s College Budo for nurturing young minds and developing practical skills vital for Uganda’s socio-economic transformation.

Founded in 1906, by the church missionary society, the vice President Jessica Alupo said this institution has stood tall, shaping leaders and contributing to Uganda’s growth. She further stressed that the legacy of Budo is built on values of Fear of God, academic excellence, integrity, bravery for the truth, teamwork, respect for self, others and property – values that have guided generations of Budonians.

On this milestone, the vice President urged the stakeholders of Budo to reflect on the contributions of those who paved the way – the founders, teachers, and alumni who have made a mark locally and globally. “From politics to science, arts to entrepreneurship, Sports to Academia; Budonians have excelled,” she said.

As Government, Alupo thanked the Founding body, the Church of Uganda and the Buganda Kingdom, for partnering with government to provide sustainable quality Education over the years.

“The NRM Government appreciates the Board of Governors and the school management for supporting and implementing government policies as channeled through the Ministry of Education & Sports,” she said.

She reaffirmed the commitment of the NRM Government to continue supporting the school by providing a conducive environment towards the achievement of holistic education. She revealed that effective July 2026, the Government of Uganda will implement a phased 25% salary increase for arts and humanities teachers in government-aided secondary schools.

Alupo extended extend her sincere appreciation to the recently retired Headmaster, Canon John Fred Kazibwe, for the wonderful job well done at King’s College, Budo. “You have clearly left an indelible mark on the Education sector of Uganda,” she said to applause of the gathering. In the same vein the vice President welcomed the new Headmaster, Mr. Godfrey Kasamba to take on the mantle of leadership of this great institution.

To the current students, she urged them to seize every opportunity to learn, grow, and serve emphasizing that Budo’s rich history is a testament to what is possible with dedication and passion.

She appreciated the staff (both teaching & non-teaching), for their unwavering commitment and dedication, saying for this is what shapes the future of Uganda. “Your impact as great teachers is immeasurable,” she said.

King’s College Budo has produced Presidents like Sir Edward Muteesa II, Uganda’s first president, Prof. Yusuf Lule, Godfrey Lukongwa Binaisa; Prime Ministers like Dr. Samson Kisekka, Hon. Abraham Waligo, Hon. Kintu Musoke, Prof. Apollo Nsibambi; and countless other politicians who have contributed immensely to the transformation of our country.

We can not forget the contribution of the seasoned ladies from King’s College, Budo like Hon. Rhoda Kalema, Justice Leticia Kikonyogo, Justice Julia Ssebutinde, to mention but a few.

The vice President appealed to the school management to embrace technology. “As Budo looks ahead, innovation and adaptability will be key. Embrace technology, critical thinking, and collaboration,” she said.

She urged King’s College Budo to continue building and transforming youngsters for the future. “Budo, a school that has nurtured leaders, innovators, and change-makers. May it continue to inspire generations. Let’s celebrate Budo’s past, embrace the present, and shape the future,” the vice said.