(Kamuli) – Father Damien Grimes, the legendary headteacher of Namasagali College in Kamuli District, has passed away at the age of 93 in his home country, the United Kingdom. The Namasagali College Alumni Association announced his peaceful death in a statement released on September 4, 2024. Fr. Grimes, a prominent figure in Uganda’s educational landscape, served the Mill Hill Missionaries (MHM) in Uganda for 41 years.
Grimes was known for his transformative leadership at Namasagali College, where he nurtured a generation of artists, leaders, and intellectuals. Reports indicate that Fr. Grimes, who was also a former headteacher of Namilyango College, died surrounded by peace and reflection after a long, impactful career.
Born in 1931, Fr. Grimes arrived in Uganda in 1959, driven by a mission to shape young minds. He began his career at Namilyango College, Uganda’s first secondary school, where he laid the foundation for his long and illustrious career in education. His significant contributions to Namilyango are widely remembered, but it was his time at Namasagali College, from 1967 to 2000, that solidified his legendary status.
Namasagali College under Father Grimes became a hub for Uganda’s future leaders and creative minds. His approach to education went beyond academics. He emphasized a blend of academic excellence and extracurricular activities, which set the school apart from others at the time. This unique combination fostered a nurturing environment where students could excel in the arts, sports, leadership, and public speaking.
Grimes’ introduction of computer studies in 1985 and the establishment of Uganda’s first school swimming pool exemplified his forward-thinking approach. He also implemented a vibrant student government system that mirrored real-world governance, instilling responsibility and leadership in students. Under his guidance, Namasagali College became known for its excellence in not only academics but also in nurturing well-rounded individuals.
The table below highlights Fr. Grimes’ key contributions during his tenure:
| Year | Contribution | Significance |
|---|---|---|
| 1967 | Appointed headteacher of Namasagali | Transformed school into a hub of academic and extracurricular excellence |
| 1985 | Introduced computer studies | First school in Uganda to offer computer education |
| 1970s | Developed a vibrant student government | Fostered leadership and responsibility among students |
| 2000 | Retired from Namasagali College | Left a lasting legacy of holistic education |
Fr. Grimes’ influence extended far beyond Uganda, as many of his students, including prominent media personalities and artists, went on to make significant contributions worldwide. His retirement in 2002 did not mark the end of his influence. He remained closely connected to his former students, many of whom gathered in Formby, Liverpool, for his 92nd birthday in 2023 to celebrate his life and legacy.
His humility and devotion to education remained evident throughout his life. Even during his final years, he expressed deep gratitude for his life’s work, attributing his accomplishments to divine guidance.
Father Grimes’ contributions were not limited to his innovative educational strategies. He weathered political changes in Uganda and maintained his commitment to shaping young minds throughout different regimes. His memoir, Uganda: My Mission, published in 2016, offers a detailed account of his work and the challenges he faced during his time in Uganda.
As we say goodbye to this extraordinary man, his legacy remains alive in the countless students he inspired. His dedication, innovation, and spiritual leadership will continue to influence future generations. His contributions to Uganda’s education system will not be forgotten, and his memory will live on through the people whose lives he touched.
Biography of Father Damien Grimes
Father Damien Grimes was born on January 15, 1931, in Liverpool, England. From an early age, he showed a strong commitment to both faith and education. After completing his primary and secondary education, he pursued higher education at the University of Glasgow, graduating with honors in Education. His theological studies took him to St Joseph’s College, Mill Hill, London, and later to Mill Hill College in Roosendaal, the Netherlands, where he completed courses in theology and philosophy.
In 1955, at the age of 24, Fr. Grimes was ordained as a priest in the Mill Hill Missionaries, a British Roman Catholic missionary society dedicated to global missionary work. His journey to Uganda began in 1959, where he served for 41 years.
His leadership role at Namasagali College, from 1967 to 2000, left a lasting impact on Uganda’s education system. Namasagali, once in a dire state, was transformed into a center of academic excellence under his stewardship. His efforts in recruiting talented teachers, introducing innovative educational programs, and encouraging student leadership made Namasagali a beacon of quality education.
Fr. Grimes’ legacy goes beyond his contributions to education. His deep sense of duty, faith, and commitment to shaping future leaders earned him respect and admiration from all who knew him.
