Teachers in Wakiso District have been urged to support colleagues who wish to start their own schools, with education leaders saying such initiatives can strengthen the education sector and contribute to community development.
The call was made by William Bwambale, chairperson of the Wakiso Private Schools Head Teachers Association (WAPSSHA), during a fundraising event to support the construction of a church at St Theresa Bakka in Busiro.
Bwambale encouraged teachers to work together and assist those struggling to establish their own schools, noting that cooperation among educators can help expand access to education and improve livelihoods.
“We must support our fellow teachers who are trying to start their own schools. When we work together and help one another, it contributes to development not only among teachers but also in our communities,” Bwambale said.
Members of the association chose the Lent season as a period to give thanks and support community development by contributing towards the construction of the church.
The initiative was led by the Chief District Inspector of Schools in Wakiso, Jane Namayanja Mawanda, together with Bwambale.
The group launched the fundraising campaign with an initial contribution of more than Shs7 million and called on well-wishers to support the project so that construction can begin.
Bwambale commended teachers who had already contributed to the project, noting that they had done so regardless of their religious backgrounds.
“I want to thank all teachers who have contributed to this cause without considering their religious differences. This shows unity and commitment to supporting community development,” he added.
He also emphasized the role of religious institutions in addressing social challenges and guiding communities through difficulties such as family conflicts, economic hardships and other social problems.
Meanwhile, Aloysius Gonzaga Nsibambi, the parish priest, applauded the contributors for supporting the development of the church and revealed that additional projects are planned at the site.
“We are grateful to everyone who has supported this initiative. We have many development plans for this place, including building a hospital, a technical institution and a retreat centre for people who come here for prayer,” he said.
Last year, the St Theresa institution in Bakka was handed over to the Holy Spirit Fathers by the Archbishop of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Kampala, Paul Ssemogerere.
However, the institution still faces challenges, including lack of accommodation for priests and the poor condition of the existing church structure, which leaders say has made the new construction project necessary.
