Jinja: The Kyabazinga of Busoga, William Gabula Nadiope IV, has praised Jinja Progressive Academy (JIPRA) for its remarkable achievements in academics and sports over the past two decades. The Kyabazinga, who served as the chief guest, commended the school’s administration, led by Haji Swaibu Kitezala, for its commitment to providing holistic education beyond the classroom.
The occasion marked the 20-year anniversary celebration of JIPRA since its establishment in the Busoga sub-region. The festivities took place at the school playground and were attended by hundreds of parents and students.
Upon his arrival, the Kyabazinga was warmly welcomed by Haji Kitezala Swaibu, the executive director of the school, accompanied by Principal Nakayima Annet, teachers, and students. The event commenced with the closing ceremony of a four-day medical camp organized by JIPRA alumni. Subsequently, the Kyabazinga inaugurated the JIPRA tower.
During his speech, His Royal Highness Nadiope IV expressed his deep honor to preside over the event, which showcased remarkable accomplishments in both academic and co-curricular activities. He extended his congratulations to the school’s stakeholders, particularly the board of governors, for their visionary ideas that have contributed to expanding the knowledge base of the community.
The Kyabazinga emphasized the alignment of JIPRA’s initiative with the kingdom’s anthem, which places a strong emphasis on combating ignorance. He also acknowledged the central government for enabling the establishment of private institutions like JIPRA, which play a vital role in promoting education, especially among the youth.
Furthermore, the Kyabazinga thanked Haji Kitezala for providing bursaries to Busoga Kingdom, enabling vulnerable students, impoverished youth, and orphans to pursue their education. He highlighted JIPRA’s prominence in football, not only in Jinja but also in the entire Busoga sub-region, citing professional footballers Khalid Aucho and Kaddu as products of the school.
Quoting Nelson Mandela, who believed that education is the most powerful weapon to change the world, the Kyabazinga expressed his gratitude to the board of governors, executive director Haji Kitezala, the staff, alumni, and the entire community for their exceptional contributions over the past two decades.
Nasabu Nantale, Busoga Kingdom’s Minister of Education, also commended JIPRA for providing bursaries worth over sh600m to support education in the region.
Reflecting on JIPRA’s journey, Haji Swaibu Kitezala, the executive director, mentioned that the school was established in 2003 on Iganga road plot 2 in Jinja City, later relocating to the Gymkan building in 2006, and finally settling at its current location on Wanje road plot 8-20 on Kamuli road village. Kitezala proudly shared that JIPRA has consistently excelled academically, with 13 students achieving maximum points in the Uganda Advanced Certificate of Education since its inception. He also highlighted the school’s remarkable achievements in various sports, including recent championships in boys’ football and boys’ volleyball at both the regional and district levels.
The ceremony was graced by distinguished guests, including Jinja West MP Dr. Timothy Batuwa, Jinja City Woman MP Manjeri Kyebakutika, UTB chairman Daudi Migereko, Issabalangira of Busoga Samuel Nkuutu Zirabamuzale Menhya, and esteemed Royal Chiefs and Ministers from the Busoga Kingdom, among others.
