45-Year-Old Catechist Sits PLE

What the report says

Justus Tukamushaba, a 45-year-old catechist from Mubende District, has sat Uganda’s Primary Leaving Examinations after returning to school nearly three decades after dropping out in Primary Five. According to Nile Post, he is studying at Kigamba Government Primary School and hopes the qualification will help him improve his English, continue through secondary school and eventually train as a Reverend.

Tukamushaba said he left school in 1995 because his parents could not afford fees, then began preaching and later served as a catechist at Kisoogi Church in Kigamba. He told the publication that difficulties understanding English Bible verses pushed him to resume his education, since stronger language skills would support his religious work and long-term vocation. He is a father of five and grandfather of four.

His return to class was not without challenges. Nile Post reported that some pupils were initially uncomfortable studying alongside an adult old enough to be their parent or grandparent. Tukamushaba said he worked to adjust, while a 12-year-old classmate helped him settle in. School officials described him as disciplined and hardworking, and said they made arrangements to support him, including allowing him to eat with teachers and giving extra academic help.

The story also highlights wider adult-learning and second-chance education themes in Uganda. A well-wisher has offered to sponsor Tukamushaba through Senior Six. Nile Post said 7,840 candidates sat the PLE in Mubende District this year.