MTAC Lecturer Laid to Rest, Parents Urged to Support Children’s Education

Reporter: Kizindo Lule

Hundreds of people gathered in Butalejja Town Council on Monday to bid farewell to Ms. Olive Negessa, 32, a lecturer at the Management Training Advisory Centre (MTAC), Mbale branch, who passed away on Sunday after a short illness.

Mourners from diverse backgrounds called on parents to support their children’s education and paid tribute to the late lecturer for her dedication and hard work.

Fred Mike Maumbe, a lecturer at MTAC and Uganda Christian University, praised Negessa for her professionalism and commitment. He urged the people of Butalejja to pursue education at any age. Maumbe also recognized Aida Nehole, a Butalejja politician in her 40s, who was taught by the late Ms. Negessa, expressing regret over losing the young educator at such a tender age.

Fred Talugende, district councillor for Butalejja Town Council, recalled that Negessa was knowledgeable, cheerful, and approachable, regardless of academic level. He advised the public to avoid isolation and to undergo regular medical checkups to detect potential illnesses that could claim lives unexpectedly. According to Talugende, Ms. Negessa passed away alone at her home.

Another mourner, Polycarp Tusime, Principal of Butalejja Technical Institute, described Negessa as a strong woman and a pillar of the community whose loss came too soon. He encouraged parents to enroll their children at Butalejja Technical Institute, emphasizing that “skill is wealth.”

Rev. Paul Higenyi, parish priest of Buwesa Church of Uganda, who officiated the burial, condemned witchcraft practices in Butalejja District. He noted that complaints had reached him implicating some educated individuals practicing witchcraft, even in office settings. He called for love, forgiveness, and a reverence for God.

Meanwhile, Moses Kemba, aspiring candidate for Bunyole East MP (UPC), urged mourners to support tree planting during the rainy season. He highlighted the benefits of trees and revealed that he had donated seedlings to several residents across Butalejja District.