John Richard Isabirye, the longest-serving headteacher of Kiira College Butiki, passed away on Saturday at Jinja Hospital after suffering a stroke. He was the headteacher of the school from 1981 until his retirement in 2001.
Isabirye was a notable figure in Ugandan education. At the time of his death, he was the director of Nakanyonyi Girls School in Jinja district. His dedication to education and leadership significantly impacted the schools and communities he served.
Born in 1948 in Busedde sub-county, Butembe County, Isabirye attended several primary schools, including Kyabakadde Primary School in Kampala, Walukuba East Primary School, Bishop Willis Primary School in Iganga district, and Kiyunga Primary School in Luuka district. He completed his secondary education at Kiira College Butiki from 1963 to 1966. He then attended Kyambogo National Teachers College from 1967 to 1969.
Isabirye began his teaching career at Kitante Hill School in 1970 and soon earned a scholarship to the University of Calgary in Alberta, Canada, where he received a bachelor’s degree in education in 1973. Upon returning to Uganda, he joined Kiira College Butiki as a biology and geography teacher. In 1975, he became the acting headteacher and was officially appointed headteacher in 1981.
During his tenure, Isabirye faced significant challenges, including a violent strike in 1983 that destroyed much of the school’s infrastructure. Despite this, he managed to revive the school, increasing student enrollment from 200 to over 1,200 by the time he retired. He emphasized the importance of involving students in school administration to prevent such unrest in the future.
Isabirye’s leadership extended beyond Kiira College Butiki. He earned a master’s degree in education from Makerere University in 1992 and founded Nakanyonyi Girls School in his retirement. He also served on the boards of several schools, including Busoga College Mwiri, Pilkinton College Muguluka, and Jinja Secondary School.
Many notable Ugandans were among his students, including Bugweri County MP Abdu Katuntu, Bugiri Municipality MP Asumani Basalirwa, New Vision finance controller Augustine Tamale, Makerere University lecturer Isaac Tibasiima, and media expert Dr. Joel Isabirye.
Former students and colleagues have expressed their condolences and shared their memories of Isabirye. Tony Tumukunde, a lawyer and former student, said, “I am saddened to hear about the death of John Richard Isabirye. He was a dedicated teacher who mentored many of us. Basoga and the entire Uganda will miss him.”
Julius Galisonga, another former student and lawyer, posted on social media: “Saddened to learn of the death of Mzee John Richard Isabirye. Words cannot capture his significance to Kiira College and those who went through his hands as headmaster. We are extremely heartbroken. Rest in Peace.”
Eboko Rashid, a business consultant and former student, praised Isabirye for his dedication to instilling discipline, values, and good morals in students. He said, “Mr. Isabirye will be remembered for his calmness, amiability, and magnanimity.”
Emmanuel Ononge, a lawyer and former student, highlighted Isabirye’s leadership during crises, noting his open communication with students and teachers. “We all turned out to be balanced students with a love for academics, debate, music, dance, and drama, among others,” he said.
Isabirye’s contributions to education and his community have left a lasting legacy. As the arrangements for his funeral are being finalized, many continue to honor his memory and the impact he had on their lives.
