Zombo DEO retires, celebrated for advancing educational standards
“We value your contributions and recognize your expertise as a resource we may still call upon, even in retirement,” he said.
Zombo: After years of dedicated public service, Nickolas Odeba, the outgoing District Education Officer (DEO) of Zombo, has retired, leaving behind a legacy of impactful leadership and significant contributions to the district’s education sector.
Odeba, 60, officially assumed the role of DEO in 2019 after serving briefly as Headteacher of Jangokoro Seed Secondary School in 2018.
His retirement was honored in a colorful ceremony held last week at Oturtgang Boys Primary School in Paidha Town Council, attended by hundreds of educators and stakeholders from across the region.
In his farewell address, Odeba expressed gratitude to colleagues for their teamwork and collaboration during his six-year leadership. He shared his guiding philosophy:
“To enhance the growth, success, and sustainability of the institution I serve through effective interpersonal and negotiation skills, striving to be an exemplary leader.”
Zombo Assistant Chief Administrative Officer, Ephraim, commended Odeba for his commitment and urged other educators to emulate his example.
“We value your contributions and recognize your expertise as a resource we may still call upon, even in retirement,” he said.
The District Chairperson, James Oruna Oyullu, praised Odeba’s excellent working relationship with political leadership, which enabled major progress in staffing and academic performance.
“During your tenure, we recruited 92 Senior Education Assistants, appointed 47 deputy headteachers, and recently onboarded 45 teachers, despite tight budgets,” Oyullu noted.
Odeba holds a Master of Education in Educational Leadership and Management from Aga Khan University, East Africa, and a Bachelor of Arts with Education from Makerere University (1992, 2nd Upper). His academic work focused on strategic planning in rural secondary schools.
He also holds a Certificate in Educational Leadership from Aga Khan University (2014) and has participated in several high-profile workshops on transformational leadership, peacebuilding, and strategic planning organized by the British Council and Aga Khan University.
His leadership was instrumental in infrastructure development across the district, including the establishment and expansion of schools such as Amei, Kango, Alangi, and the now-completed Atyak Seed Secondary School.
Before his tenure as DEO, Odeba served as Headteacher at St. Charles Lwanga College, Koboko from 2008 to 2018, Acting Headteacher for Kasule Seed SS, Kyegegwa from 2007 to2008, Deputy Headteacher at St. Maria Goretti SS, Katende-Mpigi from 2001 to2006, Caretaker Deputy Headteacher, same school from 1999 to 2000, Teacher qt St. Maria Goretti SS from 1994 to 1999) and St. Henry Girls’ SS, Wakiso from 1992 to2000.
District Councilor Nasis Binwengi, representing workers, applauded Odeba’s advocacy in a region facing multiple development challenges.
Raymond Ombere, Arua City Education Officer and Chairperson of District and Municipal Education Officers nationwide, highlighted Odeba’s unblemished record, integrity, and ethical leadership.
Despite significant achievements, Zombo’s education sector continues to face hurdles such as dilapidated infrastructure, a 10% school dropout rate, and high teenage pregnancy rates.
District Councilor Francis Bolingo representing Athuma Sub-county acknowledged progress but stressed the need to address staffing shortages.
“The government must prioritize closing the staffing gap to sustain gains in our education system,” he said.
As Nickolas Odeba steps into retirement, he leaves behind a strong foundation and a clear roadmap for future leaders to continue strengthening the education system in Zombo. His career stands as a testament to servant leadership, integrity, and unwavering commitment to education.
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