Rukungiri bid a bittersweet farewell to one of its most iconic educators, Sr. Gladyce Kachope, as her 19-year tenure as Headteacher of Immaculate Heart Girls’ School, Nyakibale, came to an end on January 16, 2024. The event, marked by both celebration and sadness, was attended by a host of dignitaries, including the Chairmen of the Board of Governors and PTA, the Principal Municipal Education Officer, staff, students, and other stakeholders. Sr. Kachope handed over the reins to her deputy, Sr. Sabina Tumusiime, who now takes on the mantle of leadership.
Sr. Kachope’s tenure, which began in 2006, was characterized by remarkable growth and achievements. Under her leadership, the school’s enrollment soared from 912 students in 2006 to an impressive 2,684 in 2024. This growth was matched by a corresponding increase in staff numbers, with teaching staff rising from 44 to 98, non-teaching staff from 17 to 35, and support staff from 24 to 68.
The school’s motto, “Aim Higher, Sky is the Limit,” became a lived reality under Sr. Kachope’s guidance. She not only focused on academic excellence but also prioritized discipline, welfare, infrastructure development, co-curricular activities, and community engagement. Her holistic approach to education transformed Immaculate Heart Girls’ School into a beacon of success in Rukungiri and beyond.
A Journey Rooted in Passion for Education
Born to the late Mr. and Mrs. Daudi Kachope Muntukwonka Achaali of Mahamba Village, Kabarole District, Sr. Kachope’s passion for education was evident from an early age. She attended Kiburarara Primary School and completed her secondary education at Immaculate Heart Girls’ School. She later pursued a Bachelor’s degree in Education with a focus on History and CRE at Makerere University, followed by a Master’s in Education Administration from the same institution.
Her journey as an educator began at Maryhill High School in Mbarara District, where she rose to the position of Deputy Headteacher before being appointed to lead her alma mater, Immaculate Heart Girls’ School. Reflecting on her career, Sr. Kachope shared, “All my life, I was very interested in education. As a religious nun, part of our mission is to take care of the lowly and the disadvantaged, and education meets that goal. However, as an individual, I loved teaching, and I still do.”
Breaking Barriers and Setting Standards
Sr. Kachope’s leadership was marked by her determination to challenge misconceptions about rural schools. During her university days, she was disheartened by the perception that schools in cities and large towns were superior to those in rural areas. This fueled her resolve to elevate Immaculate Heart Girls’ School to national and international acclaim.
Her strategies included fostering a collaborative environment where students felt heard and supported. “One of my strategies was to closely work with students, to understand their problems. That is better than dictating what you want as the burden is less when you work as a team,” she explained.
Continental Recognition
In 2019, Sr. Kachope’s exceptional leadership earned her the prestigious Continental Teacher Prize, awarded by the African Union (AU). She was one of three winners across Africa, recognized for her outstanding contributions to education. The award, which came with a $10,000 prize, celebrated her efforts in raising the status of teaching and inspiring excellence in the profession.
The AU noted that the prize aimed to “promote teaching as a first-choice profession, celebrate outstanding teachers, and enhance the visibility and status of teachers in Africa.” Sr. Kachope’s win was a testament to her unwavering commitment to education and her ability to inspire both students and colleagues.
A New Chapter in Mbarara
As Sr. Kachope bids farewell to Immaculate Heart Girls’ School, she embarks on a new chapter as the head of Boni Consilii Girls’ School in Mbarara District. Her legacy at Immaculate Heart will undoubtedly continue to inspire future generations of students and educators.
Voices of Appreciation
The farewell ceremony was filled with heartfelt tributes from colleagues, students, and stakeholders. Mr. Alfred Katabazi Mutuza, the Rukungiri Municipal Education Officer, praised Sr. Kachope for her 19 years of exemplary service, urging the school community to support her successor, Sr. Sabina Tumusiime.
Sr. Sabina, who has served as Sr. Kachope’s deputy, expressed her gratitude for the mentorship she received, vowing to maintain the school’s upward trajectory. “Sr. Kachope has groomed me to this level, and I am confident in my ability to ensure continuity,” she said.
Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa Bangirana lauded Sr. Kachope for transforming Immaculate Heart into a “five-star hotel” of education, while Ms. Betty Muzanira, former Woman MP of Rukungiri District, described her as a “force to reckon with” for her ability to connect with parents, teachers, and students alike.
Sr. Gladyce Kachope’s 19-year tenure at Immaculate Heart Girls’ School is a testament to the power of visionary leadership and unwavering dedication. Her impact on the school and the broader community will be felt for generations to come. As she moves on to her new role, the Rukungiri community celebrates her achievements and wishes her continued success in her mission to uplift education in Uganda.
“Aim Higher, Sky is the Limit”—Sr. Kachope’s life and work embody this motto, inspiring all to reach for greatness.