Paidha: In an ongoing effort to revive St. Aloysius College Nyapea, once a giant in academics and sports in the region, the Association of Former Students and Parents are making significant strides in renovating key facilities.
The restoration includes dormitories, staff quarters, and latrines, aiming to give the college a fresh and modern look.
Robert Orombi, representing the Old Boys Association at the Parents Teachers Association Annual General Meeting held on December 28 at the college dining hall, revealed that the renovation project was funded through a combined effort.
“The Old Boys Association contributed Shillings 36 million, Parents raised Shillings 32 million, while the Brothers invested over Shillings 90 million for the renovation of the old blocks,” Orombi explained.
In addition to the renovation, parents have connected the teachers’ quarters to electricity, further improving the college’s infrastructure.
Orombi emphasized that these efforts are designed to attract more students and enhance their living conditions. The significant facelift of the dormitory blocks, funded by the Brothers, has already given the college a new appearance.
Established in 1938, St. Aloysius College Nyapea, located in Oyeyu Parish, Nyapea Sub-county, has witnessed a remarkable rise in student enrollment, from just 118 students in 2017 to 480 in 2024.
This growth is largely attributed to the extensive mobilization by the Old Boys Association, parents, local leaders, and other stakeholders.
Over the past five years, the initiative has improved both academic and sports performance, and there is optimism for continued progress in the coming years.
The school’s Headteacher, Brother Paul Nantinda, commended the “vibrant Old Boys Association” for their continuous support, particularly in funding a new structure at the college’s main gate, which now symbolizes the school’s identity. The association has also revived the college’s defunct brass band, a once-proud feature of the school.
To further improve security, the school administration is working on plans to establish a security fence around the expansive campus. Brother Nantinda called on the community and leaders for continued support, saying, “We strive to lobby for more support from our leaders.”
He also urged parents to utilize local resources, such as coffee, to contribute to their children’s education. The school’s revival is also supported by the Old Boys Association, which has funded scholarships, mattresses, uniforms, and books for students.
Constantine Omwon, Chairperson of the Parents Teachers Association, thanked parents for their unwavering support, particularly the Old Boys Association for their contributions to the dormitory renovations and the establishment of a greenhouse funded by a Norwegian NGO.
Omwon also highlighted plans to expand the school’s infrastructure, including planting more trees, acquiring a minibus for student mobility, and fencing the entire school.
Parents’ reactions
Parents at the meeting expressed appreciation for the school’s leadership. Peter Ongom, a parent, called for open dialogue between the school administration, parents, and students to ensure the college’s continued success.
A former headteacher and parent encouraged fellow parents to instill strong educational values in their children to promote discipline within the school.
Local leaders also urged the surrounding community to take ownership of the college and avoid encroaching on school land. “It’s now upon us, the parents, to ensure we discipline our children and support their education in this school,” said Phillip Rwothomio, a parent.
Tom Orwodhi, the Secretary for Social Services in Zombo District, commended the efforts of the Old Boys Association, parents, leaders, and everyone involved in revitalizing the college.
The LCV Chairperson of Zombo District, James Oruna Oyullu, pledged the district’s full support, stating, “We shall do all we can to ensure the school regains its glory.”
In 2023, the Government of Uganda funded the construction of classroom blocks at the college, at a cost of over Shillings 300 million, further bolstering the school’s infrastructure.
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