Pupils of Kapeeka Primary school in Nakaseke district stayed in classes during break hours on Friday to mourn the fallen composer of the Uganda national anthem, Professor George Wilberforce Kakoma.
The Uganda flag in the school compound flew at half mast.
The school authorities banned the pupils from engaging in sports activities that include football and netball that are always practiced during break time.
A special assembly was convened to tell the pupils about the late Kakoma who died of cancer on April 8th.
During the extra-ordinary assembly, social studies teachers and the head teacher asked pupils to sing all the three stanzas of the national anthem. Pupils were then told about Kakoma’s life and his role in composing the anthem.
In a special prayer, they asked God to rest his soul in Eternal peace.
Judah Kizito, a teacher said that the school decided to join the family and nation to mourn the death of a great musician and historian who formed part of social studies syllabus. He explains that they wanted to impart a sense of patriotism to pupils and ensure they also emphasise the need of loving each other, peace and unity as cited in the anthem.
Kizito adds that the anthem is also a symbol of independence and Kakoma deserved to be remembered in a special way.
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The headmaster of the school, Wilson Kiwanuka, described the national anthem as inspirational to Ugandans and showed a need for the pupils to uphold key aspects that include liberty, peace and freedom among themselves.
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Jamirah Birungi, a primary seven pupil said that holding a special assembly to mourn Kakoma inspired her to be a nationalist as well as working harder to excel.
However, the teachers and parents expressed dismay over government’s failure to declare a national public day for mourning Professor Kakoma.
Robert Kirumira, a parent said that there was a need for a public holiday so that citizens, scholars and government officials can remember and associate themselves with Kakoma’s works.
The 89 year old music professor is to be burried on Saturday at Mabumbwe village in Wakiso district.
