Defying the Odds

My Journey from Kakyeka Stadium to Success: Defying the Odds in 1993

In the ever-competitive world of academia, some stories stand out as exceptional tales of determination and triumph. In 1993, I found myself on a path that would challenge my resolve and redefine my educational aspirations. This is the story of how an unconventional approach to studying, an unexpected turn of events, and a dedicated headteacher changed the course of my life forever.

As a young student in Primary 7, I was driven by an unrelenting desire to achieve excellence in my studies. My mother had promised to take me to the best school in Uganda if I could secure a remarkable score of 4 aggregates in the Primary Leaving Examinations (PLE). This promise became the beacon of my educational journey, and nothing less than perfection would suffice. I was already among the top 10 students in my class, but I yearned for the coveted 4-aggregate score to secure admission to Kings College Buddo, the school of my dreams.

In pursuit of this ambitious goal, I, along with a group of equally motivated friends, decided to take a radical step. We believed that our traditional school environment was stifling our potential, and we sought a more conducive space for our studies. So, every morning, we dressed for school and rendezvoused at the Kakyeka Stadium. There, we immersed ourselves in our textbooks, spending the entire day absorbed in our studies. Our evenings concluded with a thrilling movie at a local video hall in Rwebikoona, a much-needed break from our rigorous routine.

Word of our unconventional study sessions reached the ears of our headteacher, Mr. Kabuzire. Concerned for our academic future, he proposed a drastic solution – we should officially transfer to Kakyeka and take our exams there. We were at a crossroads, torn between our unconventional pursuit of knowledge and the prospect of parental intervention. While many of my friends chose to bring their parents or guardians into the equation, I was resolute in my decision to handle the situation independently. Sharing this with my mother was not an option I was willing to entertain.

The day of reckoning arrived as Mr. Kabuzire threatened to publicly cane us in the classroom, a punishment that seemed unimaginable. Facing the prospect of such humiliation, I had no choice but to reveal my secret. The outcome was far from ideal; I received six painful strokes on my bare buttocks and wept from the shame and humiliation. Little did I know that this moment of vulnerability would be a turning point in my journey.

Fast forward to the PLE exams, and the results were nothing short of spectacular. Not only did I achieve my desired score, but my entire Kakyeka team also passed with flying colours. However, my joy was tempered by an unexpected twist – my mother, informed of my unconventional study methods, altered my school choice to Ntare School. She believed that taking risks in search of the best education was not an option. In hindsight, this redirection would prove to be one of the most significant decisions of my life.

Now, 30 years later, I find myself reflecting on that transformative period. If I could turn back time, I would express my heartfelt gratitude to Mr. Kabuzire for his unwavering dedication to our education. I realise that my experiences at St. Aloysius Primary School shaped not only my academic journey but also the person I have become today.

In a world filled with stories of academic perseverance, my journey stands as a testament to the power of determination, the influence of dedicated educators, and the unexpected turns that shape our lives. St. Aloysius Primary School holds a special place in my heart, as it laid the foundation for my future successes and instilled in me the values of hard work and resilience.

Join me in celebrating the transformative power of education and the educators who leave an indelible mark on our lives. My story is a reminder that sometimes, the most unconventional paths lead to the most remarkable destinations.