Vice President Jessica Alupo paid a heartfelt tribute to Sister Margaret Conroy, a missionary under the Sisters of Sacred Heart, for her significant contributions to the education sector, particularly in promoting girl child education. The tribute took place during the burial ceremony of Sister Margaret Conroy in Mbikko, Njeru Municipality, Buikwe District, on Monday, January 15.
During Sister Margie’s tenure as the headmistress of Kangole Girls Secondary School in Moroto District, Vice President Alupo acknowledged her unwavering commitment to fostering girls’ education within various communities. Alupo shared her personal experience, having joined the school in senior two in 1989 and later serving as the deputy head girl.
Alupo highlighted the immeasurable impact of Sister Margie’s values, including commitment, courage, faith, confidence, and dedication. The late Conroy’s emphasis on discipline, hard work, and teamwork has played a crucial role in shaping many students into responsible citizens.
One of Sister Margie’s distinctive approaches was her belief in providing an all-round education. She actively engaged students in co-curricular activities, emphasizing physical fitness and encouraging participation in games. Additionally, Alupo revealed Sister Margie’s dedication to ensuring the security of students, personally conducting night patrols to safeguard them from potential threats.
Bonisca Emilly Angella, speaking on behalf of the Kangole Girls Old Students Alumni, praised Sister Margie’s missionary spirit, highlighting her sacrifices in living in the challenging conditions of Karamoja. Angella emphasized Sister Margie’s cultural understanding, advocacy for girl child education, and the positive impact she had spiritually and morally.
Sylvia Namubiru, president of the Old Girls of the Sacred Heart institutions, described Sister Margie as a faithful servant of God, a mentor, and a role model. The alumni, along with the old students of Kangole Girls SS, appealed to the government for posthumous recognition, suggesting a medal and a monument or institution named in memory of Sister Margie’s distinguished service, particularly in the Karamoja sub-region.
The ceremony, attended by notable figures such as Faith Nakuti, the woman MP for Napak District, and state ministers Rose Akello (ethics and integrity) and Esther Anakuni (disaster preparedness), concluded with Vice President Alupo contributing sh10 million from President Yoweri Museveni towards the burial expenses. Sister Margie was laid to rest at the Convent of Sacred Heart in Mbikko.
