Alumnae of Gayaza High School have launched a major fundraising campaign to construct and expand the school’s chapel, known as “Pillars of Grace,” in a bid to improve worship space for students and the wider community.
The launch event, held at the school on Saturday, was marked by prayers and a thanksgiving service led by the Archbishop of the Church of Uganda, Samuel Stephen Kaziimba Mugalu, assisted by the Bishop of Namirembe Diocese, Moses Banja.
In his sermon, Kaziimba emphasized the importance of collective effort in achieving transformative projects, commending the alumnae for spearheading the initiative to build what he described as a “house of God.”
He noted that although the school has produced distinguished individuals across various sectors, their spiritual foundation was nurtured through a chapel built more than 60 years ago. He stressed that education without spiritual grounding is incomplete.
The fundraising drive is being coordinated with the support of the Second Deputy Katikkiro of the Kingdom of Buganda, Robert Waggwa Nsibirwa, who officiated the fundraising segment. He described the school as a historic institution that has shaped disciplined and impactful young women across generations.
Nsibirwa revealed that the current chapel accommodates about 400 people, far below the school’s needs, with the proposed expansion expected to increase capacity to approximately 2,000 worshippers.
He called on stakeholders to mobilize the required Shs7 billion (about $1.8 million) for the project.
So far, the campaign has raised approximately Shs1.4 billion through cash contributions, pledges, and in-kind support, with organizers urging more well-wishers to contribute.
The headteacher, Robina Kizito Katongole, highlighted the chapel’s symbolic and spiritual importance, noting that its location at the school entrance reflects the central role of faith in the institution. She said the facility has hosted baptisms, prayers, weddings, and other spiritual programs but is no longer adequate due to increasing student numbers.
Board Chairperson Rosette Lubwama Kebba said the chapel has long served as a cornerstone for spiritual growth and community building, calling for collective effort to ensure the project’s completion.
The Chairperson of the Gayaza Old Girls Association (GOGA), Christine Kasule Mulimba, said the school has, for over 120 years, played a pivotal role in shaping responsible and impactful women.
“This expansion is our gift to current and future students. Anyone who contributes to this project is helping build a lasting legacy of faith and empowerment,” she said.
The event attracted religious leaders, alumnae, parents, students, and well-wishers, all rallying support for the initiative.
