Old Students Reject Proposed Names for Head Teacher Role at Old Kampala SSS

KAMPALA, Uganda – Old Students of Old Kampala Senior Secondary School (SSS) have raised concerns over the process of appointing a new head teacher ahead of the retirement of the current school head, Mr. Arthur Mbalule, scheduled for July 27, 2025.

In a letter addressed to the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Education and Sports, the alumni strongly object to the names allegedly recommended to the Ministry through the Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) — Mr. Abubaker Kabuye and Mr. Wateeta George — claiming the process was influenced by Mr. Mbalule himself and the school’s board chairperson, Mr. Tom Darlington Balojja.

“As members of the Old Students’ Fraternity, we continue to condemn such irregularities in the appointment of head teachers at Old Kampala SSS, particularly those driven by personal interests and hidden agendas,” wrote Mr. Isaac Waggala, the alumni representative on the school board.

The alumni say such appointments have historically contributed to the school’s decline and are calling on the Ministry to uphold transparency and merit.

The alumni also voiced concern over a third candidate under consideration, Ms. Dorothy Kabanda, citing her lack of experience as a head teacher.

“Our due diligence reveals she has never served as a head teacher and was only recently promoted. A school of Old Kampala’s stature requires a seasoned leader, not someone learning on the job,” the letter added.

The group emphasized that the school deserves a committed leader with a clear understanding of its culture, history, and challenges.

The letter further recalled how many of the school’s setbacks began in 2017, when Mr. Emmanuel Mukasa, an alumnus widely credited for positive reforms, was transferred by the Ministry.

“We strongly believe that the time has come for the Ministry to appoint a head teacher who shares the same passion and dedication for Old Kampala SSS — preferably an alumnus,” the statement concluded.

The alumni believe that involving former students in the decision-making process will help restore the school’s reputation and ensure that future leadership is guided by genuine commitment to its success.