Nalinya Lwantale Girls Primary School is undertaking a significant construction project to upgrade its facilities in an effort to align students with the standard curriculum and modern learning environments.
Founded in 1914 by the Church Missionary Society and later named after Buganda Princess Nalinya Lwantale, the school, now 109 years old, faces the challenge of reclaiming its lost glory.
Situated on Ndejje hill, Ndejje Town Council in Luweero District, Nalinya Lwantale Girls Primary School stands as one of the oldest primary schools in the country. It has played a pivotal role in shaping the education of women, producing notable leaders and educators in both pre and post-independence Uganda.
Unfortunately, the school’s mission to empower and educate girls was disrupted by the looting and destruction of infrastructure during the National Resistance Army (NRA) liberation war, forcing the school to temporarily relocate to Kampala between 1983 and 1985.
Concerns about the deteriorating state of the school’s structures, including dormitories, have been raised by both the community and school administrators. Residents, like Ms. Damalie Nakanjako, an alumna from the years 1964-1969, express dissatisfaction with the government’s lack of a renovation plan for their alma mater.
Reflecting on the school’s history, Nakanjako emphasizes its significance in empowering women through the post-independence period, underscoring the need for a collective effort involving parents, alumni, and the government to revitalize Nalinya Lwantale.
Despite the challenges, there is optimism among parents like Mr. Edward Kanakulya, who applauds the school’s continued academic success in the Primary Leaving Examination (PLE). The Luweero District chairperson, Mr. Erasto Kibirango, highlights ongoing efforts by the district council to construct new classroom blocks and pit latrines at the school.
Former head teacher Ms. Lucy Namitala, who served in the early 1950s, urged the younger generation to restore Nalinya Lwantale’s former glory during the school’s 105th-anniversary celebration in 2018. Prominent old girls, including Prof. Victoria Nakiboneka Mwaka and Ms. Betty Olive Kamya, have emphasized the need for collective action.
Current head teacher Ms. Beatrice Nansamba Ssentongo acknowledges the support received from parents and the Luweero District Administration. She outlines the challenges ahead, including the need for better sports facilities, leveling of the sports ground, renovation of structures, a school bus, and an administration block.
Despite these challenges, Ms. Nansamba reports a rise in the school’s population to 839 pupils and a positive outlook for academic performance in the post-COVID recovery period. Looking ahead, she hopes for collaboration from old students, parents, and the government to help Nalinya Lwantale Girls Primary School regain its former glory.
