Nalinya Lwantale Girls Primary School is undertaking the construction of improved and well-equipped facilities in a bid to realign 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 109-year-old school faces a challenge to reclaim its historical prominence.
Situated on Ndejje hill, Ndejje Town Council in Luweero District, Nalinya Lwantale Girls Primary School stands as one of the oldest primary institutions in the country. It has played a pivotal role in shaping the education of women, producing notable figures in both pre and post-independence Uganda.
However, the school’s commitment to empowering the girl child was disrupted during the National Resistance Army (NRA) liberation war. The conflict led to the looting and destruction of school infrastructure, resulting in the temporary relocation of the school to Kampala between 1983 and 1985.
Concerns loom over the deteriorating state of school structures, including dormitories, prompting both the community and school administrators to call for a facelift in the coming year. Damalie Nakanjako, an alumna from 1964 to 1969, expresses discontent with the government’s failure to provide a renovation package for her alma mater.
Nakanjako reminisces about the school’s past glory, asserting its significance in empowering women during Uganda’s post-independence period. Despite structural challenges, the school continues to achieve commendable results in the Primary Leaving Examination (PLE), providing hope for restoration.
Edward Kanakulya, a parent, emphasizes the need for collaborative efforts from old pupils, parents, and the government to renovate the school. Erasto Kibirango, the Luweero District chairperson, reports efforts made by the district council over the past three years to revamp Nalinya Lwantale, highlighting the construction of new classroom blocks and pit latrine structures.
Former head teacher Lucy Namitala, in 2018, lamented the school’s deteriorating state and urged the younger generation to rescue its image. Notable figures, including Prof. Victoria Nakiboneka Mwaka, Ms. Betty Olive Kamya, Ms. Persis Namuganza, Judith Babirye, Sarah Najuma, and Princess Diana Elizabeth Nalinya Teyegala Lwantale, highlight the school’s rich legacy.
Prof. Mwaka acknowledges the current state of Nalinya Lwantale and calls for collective efforts to restore its lost glory. Head teacher Beatrice Nansamba Ssentongo remains optimistic, citing collaboration with parents and the Luweero District Administration to secure new classroom blocks and pit latrines.
Despite the progress, challenges persist, requiring better sports facilities, sports ground leveling, infrastructure renovation, a school bus, and administration block construction. The school, with 839 pupils, anticipates improved results post-COVID lockdown recovery.
