Prince Nakibinge calls for a succession policy in Muslim Schools

By Malik Fahad  

Prince Dr. Kassim Nakibinge Kakungulu, the titular head of Uganda’s Muslim community, has urged the Uganda Muslim Education Association (UMEA) to establish a clear succession policy for head teachers in Muslim-founded schools. This, he said, would prevent confusion and lobbying when leadership vacancies arise due to retirements.  

Speaking at an event honouring Hajji Musoke Mpungu, the outgoing head teacher of Masaka Secondary School, Prince Nakibinge emphasized the need for structured transitions.

“UMEA must develop a proper succession plan outlining qualifications, experience, and age requirements for head teachers—especially in first-class schools—to avoid unnecessary gaps and lobbying,” he stated.  

Prince Nakibinge commended the Ministry of Education and Sports for maintaining open communication with UMEA, ensuring timely policy discussions.

“The ministry has consistently engaged us as stakeholders. While we may not always agree, our voices are heard,” he noted.

He particularly applauded the ministry’s handling of the retirement of Hajji Musa Musoke Mpungu, resisting external pressure and allowing school structures to guide the succession process.  

“Lobbying for such a critical position creates unnecessary tension. A clear policy would ensure peaceful transitions,” he added.

The prince challenged head teachers Under UMEA to build capacity of their staff, callig for a policywhere all deputy head teachers apply to the ministry to serve as substantive head teachers.

Outgoing head teacher celebrated for legacy

Hajji Mpungu, who served for 18 years, was lauded for maintaining discipline, academic excellence, and securing school property amid Uganda’s land-grabbing challenges.

“With over 4,473 students, this school has never been closed due to strikes—a testament to his leadership,” Prince Nakibinge remarked.  

Dr. Kedrace Turyagendwa, the Ministry of Education’s Permanent Secretary represented by Hajji Abubakar Bbuye, praised Mpungu’s achievements and urged his successor, Hajji Ahmed Mukiibi, to uphold the school’s standards.  

Florence Namayanja, Masaka City Mayor, highlighted Mpungu’s environmental efforts, including tree planting, which aligned with her vision for a “clean, green, and liveable city.” She urged the new administration to complete ongoing projects, such as the sports arena and staff housing complex.  

In his farewell speech, Hajji Mpungu thanked stakeholders, including Prince Nakibinge and parents, for their support.

“News reports often highlight schools with fewer than 1,000 students being shut down due to student strikes and unrest. Yet, by Allah’s grace and your unwavering support, this institution—with over 4,473 students—has never closed for a single day in my 18 years as head teacher. Such stability would have been impossible without divine will and your collective efforts,” Hajji Mpungu noted.

“On another note, I’ve successfully secured titles for all the school’s land, except one portion acquired from the Aghakan Foundation after the 1954 amalgamation with Aghakan Academy. This matter is still in progress, and I’m personally engaging the President’s office to expedite it. I’m confident we’ll soon have that title as well,” he added.

The school board presented Mpungu with a car as a token of appreciation for his service, marking the end of an era and the beginning of a new chapter under structured succession guidelines.