Situated majestically on the rolling hills of Nyakibale, Rukungiri, Immaculate Heart Girls’ School had the golden opportunity of hosting the Minister for Local Government, Hon. Balaam Barugahara, on Wednesday, 28th October 2026.
It was an extraordinary afternoon, characterised by jubilation, excitement, elation and exhilaration.
At exactly 1:00 p.m, the Headmistress, Sr. Sabina Tumusiime, informed the school community that the Honourable Minister, who was traversing the country on various assignments, would be making an impromptu visit to the school.
Hardly had ten minutes elapsed when the community received information that the Minister was already in the school’s neighbourhood. Without wasting a moment, every Tom, Dick and Harry understood the assignment! Student leaders, queens, the school band and Immac TV journalists swung into action. The school was ready to receive its distinguished visitor.
The Minister, accompanied by the Member of Parliament and other guests, was welcomed by the school’s movers and shakers. The band accorded the visitors a spectacular musical salute, while the queens ushered them in with graceful waves and the student leaders received them with a dignified procession. The delegation briefly proceeded to the Headmistress’s office before making its way to the assembly arena.
The students rose to their feet in a thunderous standing ovation, punctuated by synchronised handclaps and enthusiastic cheers. It was a beautiful demonstration of respect, excitement and school spirit.
The programme director Okuyangabire Mercy the school speaker commenced her program with an opening prayer recited by the school chaplain, Rev. Fr. Mugabe Cleophas. The national and school anthems followed, after which the Headmistress addressed the gathering.
Having observed the protocol and introduced the distinguished guests, she gave a brief but insightful account of the school’s history, identity and achievements.
She expressed profound gratitude to the President of the Republic of Uganda, H.E. Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, and the PLU leader, General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, for their commitment to education and the guidance they continue to provide to Ugandans.
She emphasised that Immaculate Heart Girls’ School is committed to providing holistic education to the girl child, nurturing not merely academically accomplished learners but patriotic, disciplined and responsible citizens.
The Headmistress also highlighted the school’s progress and achievements, reaffirming its commitment to excellence and holistic development. She concluded by wishing Hon. Balaam a pleasant and memorable visit, as well as an atmosphere of tranquillity during his stay at Immaculate Heart.
The Honourable Minister subsequently rose to address the visibly excited community. His remarks were received with resounding cheers, expressions of admiration and enthusiastic applause.
In his address, he commended President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni and General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, describing their leadership as a blessing to the country. He explained that his nationwide tour was part of broader efforts aimed at preparing a brighter future for the younger generation.
The Minister expressed heartfelt appreciation to Immaculate Heart Girls’ School for what it has become, observing that it is a leading institution whose example others should emulate. He described Immaculate Heart as an epitome of excellence and a model worth celebrating, not only in the region but also nationally.
He particularly applauded the students for their smartness, discipline and composure, while describing the school environment as exceptionally clean and well maintained. Indeed, the school’s physical appearance and general organisation did not go unnoticed!
In a gesture that sent the excitement levels soaring, the Minister gave every student a soda, amounting to an estimated UGX 1.9 million. Beyond this generous treat, he made significant promises to the institution, including:
- Providing a transformer to improve the school’s electricity supply.
- Facilitating the tarmacking of the road from the main road to the main school gate.
- Facilitating the tarmacking of the road from the lower gate into the school premises.
He concluded by thanking the students for being ladies of substance and encouraging them to continue upholding the values that distinguish Immaculate Heart Girls’ School.
Following the address, the Honourable Minister embarked on a guided tour of the school. He visited various sections, interacted freely with students and staff, and took time to appreciate the school’s facilities, organisation and ongoing developments.
His tour culminated in the school museum, where he had an opportunity to appreciate the institution’s history, heritage and remarkable journey over the years.
Thereafter, the school community escorted him to the main gate amid warm expressions of gratitude, affection and appreciation. It was a fitting conclusion to an afternoon that will undoubtedly remain memorable in the school’s history.
Indeed, an impromptu visit had turned into an extraordinary encounter, leaving behind smiles, promises, inspiration and renewed enthusiasm.
Long live Hon. Balaam Barugahara!
Long live Immaculate Heart Girls’ School!
Long live Uganda!
EXCELSIOR! FOR GOD AND MY COUNTRY.