St. John’s Secondary School, Nandere Marks 76 Years of Faith, Excellence and Service

St. John’s Secondary School, Nandere Marks 76 Years of Faith, Excellence and Service

Wednesday, June 24, 2026

By BERNARD BAKALU           

Luweero

Rev. Fr. John Mary Lukwago (5th right) is joined by Rev. Fr. Emmanuel Kato Lubega (immediately to his right) and other guests in cutting a cake during the climax of the 76th anniversary celebrations of St. John’s Secondary School, Nandere, on Wednesday, June 24, 2026. Also pictured are Dr. Charles Muweesi (2nd left), Chairperson of the Board of Governors, and Headteacher Mr. Portase Muhimbise. PHOTO BY BERNARD BAKALU.

St. John’s Secondary School, Nandere on Wednesday, June 24, 2026, joyfully celebrated its 76th anniversary, commemorating more than seven decades of Catholic education, spiritual formation and academic excellence.

The celebrations took place at the school’s expansive grounds in Our Lady of Grace Nandere Parish, Kasana–Luweero Diocese, and brought together clergy, educators, students, parents, alumni and friends of the school in thanksgiving for God’s abundant blessings over the institution.

The day began under bright sunshine with the arrival of the principal celebrant, Rev. Fr. John Mary Lukwago, Parish Priest of Uganda Martyrs’ Kiwoko Parish and Nakaseke District Education Secretary in the Diocese. He was joined by several priests, education leaders and invited guests.

The thanksgiving celebration commenced with the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass at 10:00 a.m., beautifully animated by the school choir, whose vibrant liturgical music added solemnity and joy to the Eucharistic celebration.

Concelebrating the Holy Mass were Rev. Fr. Peter Kisamba Mugwerwa, Rector of St. Kizito Minor Seminary; Rev. Fr. Bonny Byaruhanga, Chaplain of St. John’s Secondary School, Nandere; Rev. Fr. Emmanuel Kato Lubega, Luweero District Education Secretary; and Rev. Fr. Joseph Kigundu, General Spiritual Director.

Homily: Remain Faithful to Your Mission

In his homily, Fr. Lukwago conveyed greetings from the faithful of Uganda Martyrs’ Kiwoko Parish before sharing a personal connection to the school.

“My father is an alumnus of this great institution,” he remarked with a smile. “In that sense, I too am a grandson of St. John’s Secondary School.”

He congratulated the school community upon celebrating the Solemnity of its patron, St. John the Baptist, describing him as a model of humility, courage and unwavering fidelity to God’s mission.

Reflecting on the vocation of every learner, Fr. Lukwago challenged the students to live lives worthy of the sacrifices their parents continue to make for their education.

“Ask yourselves: Are your parents still proud of the children they have raised? Your conduct should always give them joy and never regret.”

He urged the students to imitate St. John the Baptist by trusting completely in God, embracing integrity and becoming witnesses of honesty wherever they find themselves.

“There should be no fear of theft or dishonesty among you,” he said. “Let your character inspire confidence. Be known for truthfulness and uprightness.”

Encouraging learners facing academic challenges, he reminded them never to lose hope.

“Trust God even in your studies. Every challenge can become an opportunity when entrusted to Him.”

Fr. Lukwago emphasized that every Christian has a God-given purpose.

“Like St. John the Baptist, each one of us has been created with a mission. Our lives must always point others to Christ.”

Addressing the students directly, he continued:

“You are here on a mission of intellectual liberation. Never lose sight of why you came to school. Do not allow temporary pleasures or unnecessary distractions to rob you of your future.”

He urged them to prepare diligently for life, pursue excellence in education and become positive influences among their peers.

“Be different. Let your presence make your school and your community better. Choose what is good, reject what is evil, and value education, for it remains one of God’s greatest gifts for transforming lives.”

Speeches Follow the Eucharistic Celebration

Following the Holy Mass, the programme continued with speeches from school administrators, education officials, students and members of the Board of Governors.

School Chaplain Commends Stakeholders

The School Chaplain, Rev. Fr. Bonny Byaruhanga, welcomed the guests and acknowledged the presence of Fr. John Mary Lukwago, who represented the Diocesan Education Secretary, Rev. Fr. Joseph Mary Ssekalegga, in his capacity as Nakaseke District Education Secretary.

He also recognized Rev. Fr. Emmanuel Kato Lubega, Luweero District Education Secretary, and expressed appreciation to KLD Catholics Online for livestreaming the celebration.

Students Pay Tribute to the Founders

Aloysious Kasagga, a Senior Four (S.4) student representing the Students’ Debating Club, expressed gratitude to the missionaries, founders and all those whose vision and dedication laid the foundation for St. John’s Secondary School.

He observed that during the past 76 years, thousands of students had passed through the institution and were now serving Uganda in various professions, making a meaningful contribution to Church and society.

 

Headteacher Calls for Holistic Formation

The Headteacher, Mr. Portase Muhimbise Begumya, thanked God for preserving the school throughout its rich history.

“Many institutions have come and gone,” he noted, “but by God’s grace, St. John’s Secondary School continues to flourish after 76 years.”

He encouraged students to emulate St. John the Baptist by rejecting immoral practices and embracing virtues that prepare them for successful and meaningful lives.

Referring to the anniversary theme, “Unlock Our Potentials,” Mr. Muhimbise emphasized the school’s commitment to holistic education rooted in Catholic values.

“We believe that true education nurtures the whole person—spiritually, intellectually, morally and socially. We deliberately create time for our learners to grow in their faith alongside academic excellence.”

He challenged every learner to maximize his or her God-given talents.

“As we celebrate 76 years of existence, let every student unlock his or her full potential.”

The Headteacher also highlighted the school’s continued improvement in academic performance and reaffirmed its commitment to excellence.

“We are determined to produce academic giants. Our call to every learner is simple: strive, toil and achieve.”

He commended the dedication of the teaching staff, comprising 28 government-paid teachers and 22 teachers employed by the Board of Governors.

Breaking Ground for a Multi-Purpose Building

Mr. Muhimbise announced that construction of a modern multi-purpose building would officially commence on 1 July 2026.

He expressed gratitude to the Government of Uganda for allocating UGX 350 million towards the project, describing it as a significant investment in the school’s future.

Mr. Muhimbise also commended the government for paying teachers’ salaries and the timely release of the school’s capitation grant, saying the support has enabled the institution to implement its planned programmes and activities effectively.

Appreciation to Parents

The Headteacher also thanked parents and guardians for their continued sacrifices in supporting their children’s education through the timely payment of school fees and unwavering partnership with the school.

Call to Patriotism and Responsible Citizenship

Addressing the students, Mr. Muhimbise encouraged them to become disciplined, patriotic and responsible citizens.

“Be punctual, attend classes faithfully, participate in physical exercise, serve your community whenever called upon, and willingly take on leadership responsibilities.”

He urged them to love their country and reject every form of corruption.

Board Chair Promises Better Facilities

The Chairperson of the Board of Governors, Dr. Charles Muweesi, challenged the gathering to reflect on the significance of celebrating 76 years of the school’s existence.

Speaking about the planned multi-purpose building, he emphasized accountability and quality workmanship throughout the construction process.

He also pledged improved accommodation for members of staff.

“Our teachers are the backbone of this institution. When teachers thrive, the school flourishes. We are committed to addressing their welfare comprehensively so that they can continue serving our learners with dedication.”

“You Have a Treasure Here”

Addressing the gathering, Rev. Fr. Emmanuel Kato Lubega, Luweero District Education Secretary and an Old Boy of the school, spoke proudly of his six-year journey at St. John’s.

“Dear students, you have a treasure in this school. Make the most of every opportunity available to you.”

He encouraged the learners to appreciate the Catholic education they receive, assuring them that the school continues to produce responsible citizens capable of excelling in every sphere of life.

Fr. Lubega also conveyed greetings from the Diocesan Education Secretary, Rev. Fr. Joseph Mary Ssekalegga, and challenged students to embrace discipline, diligence and academic excellence, drawing inspiration from the wisdom of the philosopher Aristotle.

Chief Guest Emphasizes Punctuality

In his closing remarks, Fr. John Mary Lukwago underscored the importance of punctuality as a fundamental Christian and professional virtue.

“Punctuality is a sign of integrity because it reflects our commitment to the responsibilities entrusted to us.”

He concluded with an appeal to the entire school community:

“If we desire to go far together—as students, teachers and administrators—we must cultivate the discipline of punctuality.”

Throughout the intervals between speeches, students entertained guests with cultural performances, music and dance, adding colour and warmth to the celebration.

Fellowship and Thanksgiving

The celebrations concluded with group photographs before guests were hosted to a luncheon by the Headteacher and the school administration.

The anniversary served not only as a celebration of the school’s rich history but also as an occasion to renew its commitment to forming young people who are spiritually grounded, academically excellent and morally upright, in keeping with the mission of Catholic education.

St. John’s Secondary School, Nandere: A Brief Profile

St. John’s Secondary School, Nandere is a government-aided Catholic secondary school located in Luweero District within the Diocese of Kasana–Luweero.

Founded by the Missionaries of Africa (White Fathers), the school traces its origins to 1949 when its present campus was established. It officially opened as a Junior School in 1950, became a full secondary school in 1967, and introduced Advanced Level education in 1987 following its recovery from the devastation of the Luweero Triangle conflict.

Guided by its motto, “Toil and Achieve,” the school is committed to providing holistic Catholic education that nurtures learners spiritually, intellectually, morally and socially, equipping them to become responsible citizens and servant leaders.

Strategically located alongside St. Kizito Minor Seminary, St. Theresa Boys’ Primary School and Our Lady of Grace Nandere Parish, the school enjoys a close relationship with the local Church and remains firmly rooted in the evangelizing mission of Catholic education.

Throughout its history, St. John’s has demonstrated remarkable resilience. During the 1980–1985 Luweero Triangle war, the school was closed and temporarily served as a refuge for displaced civilians. When it reopened in 1986, only eight students enrolled. Through the dedication of successive administrators, teachers, parents, alumni, government and development partners, the institution steadily rebuilt its infrastructure, enrolment and academic programmes.

Government investment has facilitated the construction of science laboratories, classroom blocks, a modern library, staff houses, sanitation facilities and other key infrastructure. Since 2007, the school has also benefited from Uganda’s Universal Secondary Education (USE) programme, later extended to Advanced Level education.

A long-standing partnership with Old Swinford Hospital School in the United Kingdom has significantly strengthened the institution through teacher exchange programmes, scholarships, textbooks, laboratory equipment, internet connectivity and infrastructure support.

Since its founding, St. John’s has been led by 15 headteachers, from the Bannakarooli Brothers in its formative years to the current Headteacher, Mr. Portase Muhimbise Begumya, who assumed office in 2024.

The school has produced numerous distinguished alumni, including Catholic priests, religious sisters and brothers, educators, medical professionals, civil servants, business leaders, politicians, sports personalities and other professionals who continue to make valuable contributions to both Church and nation.

Looking to the future, St. John’s Secondary School plans to expand its infrastructure through the construction of a new administration block, girls’ dormitory, guest house, headteacher’s residence and a modern multi-purpose building, while remaining steadfast in its mission of providing quality, holistic Catholic education for generations to come.

Rev. Fr. John Mary Lukwago (5th right) is joined by Rev. Fr. Emmanuel Kato Lubega (immediately to his right) and other guests in cutting a cake during the climax of the 76th anniversary celebrations of St. John’s Secondary School, Nandere, on Wednesday, June 24, 2026. Also pictured are Dr. Charles Muweesi (2nd left), Chairperson of the Board of Governors, and Headteacher Mr. Portase Muhimbise. PHOTO BY BERNARD BAKALU.

Rev. Fr. John Mary Lukwago celebrates Holy Mass during the 76th anniversary celebrations of St. John’s Secondary School, Nandere, on Wednesday, June 24, 2026. PHOTO BY BERNARD BAKALU.

Rev. Fr. John Mary Lukwago blesses the congregation following the offertory procession during Holy Mass held as part of the 76th anniversary celebrations of St. John’s Secondary School, Nandere, on Wednesday, June 24, 2026. PHOTO BY BERNARD BAKALU.

Students of St. John’s Secondary School, Nandere, present offertory gifts for blessing by Rev. Fr. John Mary Lukwago during Holy Mass marking the school’s 76th anniversary celebrations on Wednesday, June 24, 2026. PHOTO BY BERNARD BAKALU.

 

The St. John’s Secondary School, Nandere choir performs during Holy Mass as part of the school’s 76th anniversary celebrations on Wednesday, June 24, 2026. PHOTO BY BERNARD BAKALU.

From left to right: Rev. Fr. Peter Kisamba Mugerwa, Rector of St. Kizito Minor Seminary; Mr. Portase Muhimbise, Headteacher of St. John’s Secondary School, Nandere; Rev. Fr. John Mary Lukwago, Parish Priest of Kiwoko Parish; and other guests pose for a group photograph during the school’s 76th anniversary celebrations on Wednesday, June 24, 2026. PHOTO BY BERNARD BAKALU.

BELOW IS AN AERIAL VIEW OF THE ST. JOHN’S SECONDARY SCHOOL, NANDERE CAMPUS

The Administration Block of St. John’s Secondary School, Nandere.

-END-