On Saturday, March 22, 2025, Masaka School for the Deaf celebrated 20 years of transforming lives of children with special needs.
The celebrations, held at the school in Masaka district, were graced by the Nnaabegereka- Sylvia Nagginda, who was the Chief Guest, and attended by Buganda Kingdom officials, local and national leaders, industry leaders from various sectors, Rotarians, educationists, religious leaders, school alumni, and other guests.
Masaka School for the Deaf was founded in 2005 by Francis Kamulegeya and his late sister- Sophia Kafeero. They had a vision to uplift children often overlooked by society- those who have hearing deficiency, but are capable in many other ways.
Instead of investing in other more financially rewarding schemes, the pair chose to invest in a school that would give these children a voice, even if not in the conventional sense.
Since its inception, the school has provided education and transformed lives and livelihoods of over 1,000 deaf learners. The institution offers both primary education and vocational skills training.
The Nnaabegereka applauded the management, teachers, and parents, for their commitment and dedication in supporting the children, by giving them the opportunity to learn and grow.
“This school has a nurturing environment, which ensures that every child with hearing challenges receives the education, love, care, and attention they deserve. Each student is not only well-equipped, but they are also socially and emotionally supported,” the Nnaabegereka said.
“By integrating a structured approach with education, computer literacy, assistive technologies, and vocational training, the school is equipping young deaf children with the needed skills to navigate the modern world. This school shares in the core values of the Nnaabegereka Foundation. Our foundation is deeply committed to empowering vulnerable communities, advocating for equality, and fostering sustainable development, while staying true to the values of the people we serve,” she added.
She also emphasized that achieving inclusive education for all requires collective effort from the government, corporates, educators, parents, and the community at large. She urged all stakeholders to advocate for resources and support, to ensure that schools for children with special needs provide exceptional learning experiences.
Francis Kamulegeya, the School Proprietor, said that the institution started with just 12 pupils and two teachers, but today, it has grown to accommodate 133 children, with 27 teachers.
He also stated that the school now has a partnership with the Ministry of Education and Sports.
“Our mission is clear; to empower deaf children, to become recognized, independent individuals. We do not separate them from the world- rather, we equip them with academic knowledge, hands-on skills, and confidence, so they can easily and confidently integrate into society. As you have might have realised through our exhibition, our students excel in weaving, tailoring, baking, as well as other vocational activities,” he said.
“Over the years, we have had more than 1,000 alumni, many of whom are with us today to celebrate the 20-year milestone. We are proud to track their progress—some have pursued higher education, others are gainfully employed, while some have established families of their own. This is the impact of the work we do,” Kamulegeya added.
Sarah Nakabuye, the school Headteacher, said that one of the reasons the school has been successful, is its dedicated team of staff and leaders who make the work possible.
She added that, academically, the students continue to perform well. Last year, all eight candidates who sat for their Primary Leaving Examinations (PLE) passed—six in second grade with 19 aggregates, and the lowest score at 25 aggregates.
“This is proof that disability is not inability. We have also made remarkable achievements in sports- as our school has won three consecutive national championships (2022-2024) in the primary league, competing against mainstream schools,” she said.
“Parents’ perceptions of their children have also transformed. Initially, many did not see their deaf children as capable. However, through regular meetings, sign language training, and interactions with the alumni, parents have gained a new appreciation for their children’s potential. We have shown them that deafness is not a disease, but a condition that can be embraced,” she added.
Among the notable persons that attended the 20 years celebrations of the Masaka School for the Deaf were; I&M Bank CEO Robin Bairstow, MTN Uganda CEO Sylvia Mulinge, Uganda Breweries Managing Director Andrew Kilonzo, Uganda Breweries Ltd Board Chairman- Jimmy Mugerwa, and Standard Bank Group’s Regional Head of Global Markets- Mrs Anne Juuko Makubya, Principal Partner Kasirye Byaruhanga & Co. Advocates William Byaruhanga, Managing partner MMAKS Advocates Timothy kanyerezi Masembe, among others.
