The Katikkiro of Buganda, Charles Peter Mayiga, has called upon schools across Uganda to place greater emphasis on the quality and welfare standards of student accommodation facilities, emphasizing that a conducive living environment plays a vital role in academic excellence and character development.
He made the remarks whilst officiating at the opening of a newly constructed dormitory block for students of Mengo Senior School at the Royal Boys Hostel in Bukesa, Kyaddondo. The new facility has been named the “Charles Peter Mayiga Block” in his honor.
The Royal Boys Hostel was established by Prince Tony Wasajja, a servant of the Buganda Kingdom, who welcomed the Katikkiro and conducted a guided tour of the premises before the official unveiling of the new building. During the ceremony, Mayiga also planted a commemorative tree.
Addressing guests and students, Mayiga stressed that the environment in which students live and study significantly influences their growth into responsible and successful citizens.
“When students live in a clean, disciplined, and well-guided environment like this, they are empowered to succeed in life and contribute positively to society,” he said.
Katikkiro Mayiga praised Prince Wasajja for establishing and maintaining a hostel that meets high standards of cleanliness, organization, and student welfare.
He further noted that education extends beyond classroom instruction, highlighting the importance of mentorship, discipline, and moral guidance in shaping young people.
“A person is molded just like clay pottery is shaped. Such an environment enables children to study well while also learning how to take care of themselves and their future,” he said.
Katikkiro Mayiga commended Prince Wasajja for mentoring students through practical example and humility, saying his leadership would inspire young people to become responsible citizens.
He urged the youth to embrace hard work, discipline, and purpose-driven living.
“Our vision is to restore Buganda to greater heights. Do not ask what Mengo has done for you; instead ask what you have done to elevate Buganda. Young people must learn to do the right thing at the right time,” he said.
The Buganda Kingdom Minister for Social Services (Education, Health) and the Office of the Nnaabagereka, Choltilda Nakate Kikomeko, Choltildah Nakate Kikomeko, applauded the Katikkiro for his continued support toward improving education and leadership development within the kingdom.
She also praised the founders of the hostel for supporting the Kabaka’s vision of promoting quality education and holistic student development.
“We are pleased that students here are receiving complete support beyond academics,” she said.
Speaking at the event, Prince Tony Wasajja expressed admiration for Mayiga, saying the Katikkiro’s words of encouragement and resilience had inspired him throughout the five years since establishing the hostel.
He explained that the hostel focuses not only on academics but also on instilling values of responsibility, cleanliness, self-reliance, and brotherhood among students.
According to Wasajja, students at the hostel are encouraged to engage in productive activities including farming, innovation projects, and leadership initiatives aimed at preparing them for life beyond school.
The hostel’s student president, Dalton Kimera, said students are proud of Prince Wasajja’s mentorship, which has helped them grow into disciplined young men prepared to make meaningful contributions to society.
Meanwhile, Rebecca Najjero, Deputy Headteacher of Mengo SS, praised students residing at the hostel for their exceptional academic performance and discipline.
She thanked Prince Wasajja for the outstanding role he continues to play in nurturing and mentoring the students.
The ceremony also marked the introduction of Drake Kiganda as the newly elected president of the hostel.