The Katikkiro of Buganda, Charles Peter Mayiga, has paid tribute to the late educationist Kizito Mukalazi, describing him as a transformative figure who significantly contributed to the growth of private education in Uganda through Hormisdallen Schools.
Mukalazi, the founder and former director of Hormisdallen Schools, passed away on Friday at the age of 71.
Mayiga, who was represented at the burial by Buganda Kingdom Minister for Heritage, Palaces, Tombs, Tourism and Security Anthony Wamala, delivered a message of condolence during the funeral held on Tuesday in Kagembe, Ssemuto, Bulemeezi, Nakaseke District.
He described Mukalazi as a committed educator who raised academic standards and shaped the lives of thousands of learners through his institutions.
“We are deeply saddened by the loss of Mr. Mukalazi, a committed educationist who educated many children and elevated education standards to admirable levels, as seen through his Hormisdallen schools,” the message read.
Mayiga noted that Mukalazi’s schools emphasised both academic excellence and practical skills development, fostering creativity and innovation among learners. He also acknowledged his support for Buganda Kingdom initiatives.
“He generously offered his school grounds to the Kyaddondo county team and hosted the Ekisaakaate kya Maama Nnaabagereka twice, in 2024 and 2026. This reflects a true Buganda spirit that will never fade,” Mayiga said.
Mukalazi founded Hormisdallen Schools in February 1986 with just nine pupils and three teachers at its first campus on Mawanda Road in Kamwokya. What began as a small institution later expanded into a multi-campus network, including Kyebando, Gayaza, Kamwokya and Kiteezi.
Under his leadership, the schools developed a strong academic reputation, particularly in the Uganda National Examinations Board (UNEB) Primary Leaving Examinations (PLE), where they consistently posted strong results.
Beyond academics, Hormisdallen became known for its holistic education model, integrating classroom learning with co-curricular activities such as sports, leadership training and character development.
Mukalazi also played an active role in youth development programmes and community initiatives linking education with discipline and sports. He maintained a long-standing partnership with URA Football Club, which has used the Gayaza campus as a training base.
Education leaders and stakeholders have widely described him as a visionary who helped shape Uganda’s private education landscape and expanded access to quality schooling over several decades.