Major General Felix Kulayigye has led a renovation effort at St Maurice Kitasa Primary School, his former school, giving the institution a facelift nearly eight decades after its founding.
The Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF), under its civil-military cooperation programme, renovated one of the school’s oldest classroom blocks. The works included re-roofing, reconstruction, and painting as part of the 44th Tarehe Sita Anniversary activities.
Maj Gen Kulayigye, who currently serves as the Director of Defence Public Information, spearheaded the project after advocating for the school's inclusion among UPDF-supported community projects during the 2025 Tarehe Sita Week.
“It is from the heart for one to remember their roots because one who does not know where they started cannot know where they are going,” said Maj Gen Kulayigye. “To give back to your roots is not to seek praise but to acknowledge the people who nurtured your humble beginning.”
The army officer praised the school’s role in his personal journey, saying it produced not only a General but also other accomplished Ugandans. In 2016, he also led a separate drive to restore a classroom block damaged by a fallen tree.
He pledged to continue mobilising support to extend electricity to the lower primary section and the Sisters’ convent. He called on the community to raise funds to re-roof another block that remains in poor condition.
Maj Gen Kulayigye urged parents to instil a strong work ethic in their children, advising them not to rely solely on government support. He also counselled pupils to stay focused, disciplined, and patriotic.
“Girls should avoid distractions from boys who may derail their future,” he warned, adding that children must live with purpose and respect for elders.
He credited President Yoweri Museveni for professionalising the UPDF, contrasting it with previous regimes associated with violence and impunity.
Maj Gen Kulayigye also encouraged locals to take advantage of the new Bukomansimbi road to improve their incomes and to elect leaders committed to development.
Mariam Kaberuka, Deputy Resident City Commissioner for Nyendo-Mukungwe, commended the government’s Universal Primary Education programme. She, however, urged parents to play their part by feeding and enrolling all children in school.
Rev Sr Rose Mary Nakalyowa, the school’s head teacher, hailed the UPDF for breathing new life into the institution.
“The UPDF’s intervention has given the school a fresh look and new hope,” she said. She added that over UGX 31 million is needed to renovate the remaining classroom block and highlighted the urgent need for infrastructure in the teachers’ quarters.
Head prefect Walter Mumbere, speaking on behalf of the pupils, thanked Maj Gen Kulayigye and the UPDF for transforming their learning environment.
The event drew local leaders, parents, alumni, and members of the surrounding community.
