St. Mary’s College Mayenze proudly celebrates its Principal, Mr. Francis Wangolo, who has successfully graduated with a Master of Arts in Public Administration and Management from Nkumba University—a remarkable milestone in his lifelong journey of leadership, education, and service.
Mr. Wangolo’s academic research, titled “Assessing the Contributions of the Parish Development Model on Household Incomes: A Case Study of Manafwa Town Council, Manafwa District Local Government,” examined how government initiatives such as the Parish Development Model are transforming the livelihoods of Ugandan households.
He dedicated his achievement to his late grandfather, Paul Kalaija Bwendegyere, a courageous and principled politician who stood firm for democracy in Kabale District during a time of political turbulence. Wangolo credits his grandfather’s integrity, bravery, and commitment to justice as his lifelong inspiration.
“I dedicate this degree to my grandfather, who showed that integrity, courage, and service to the people are the true measures of leadership,” said Wangolo.
Mr. Wangolo’s academic foundation is equally impressive. He holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Public Administration from the Islamic University in Uganda (IUIU) and a Postgraduate Diploma in Urban Governance and Management from the Uganda Management Institute (UMI). These qualifications, together with his professional experience, have shaped him into a well-rounded leader in governance and administration.
In addition to his role as Principal, Mr. Wangolo serves as Principal Township Officer for Butiru Town Council in Manafwa District, Head of Laity at St. Augustine of Hippo Parish Situmi, and Regional Coordinator of the Uganda Local Government Workers Union (ULGWU) for Eastern Uganda. Through these roles, he continues to advocate for fair remuneration and improved working conditions for local government employees.
Beyond administration, Mr. Wangolo has played an active role in political advocacy. He once chaired the Forum for Third Term Advocacy, supporting President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni’s extended leadership, and even contested for the Bubulo West Parliamentary seat in the 2005/2006 elections, finishing third with an impressive 14,000 votes. His work earned international recognition, including a feature by BBC journalist Siraji Kalyango.
Born to a mother from Western Uganda and a father from Eastern Uganda, Mr. Wangolo’s upbringing across different regions exposed him to Uganda’s cultural and political diversity—an experience that continues to shape his inclusive approach to leadership.
Reflecting on his academic journey, Mr. Wangolo reaffirmed his dedication to advancing good governance and community development:
“This graduation is not just a personal achievement. It represents my renewed commitment to serve my community, strengthen governance, and contribute to Uganda’s sustainable development.”
As he embarks on the next chapter of his career, Mr. Wangolo pledges to use his knowledge and experience to champion the welfare of local government workers, promote effective public programs, and continue serving as a beacon of integrity and leadership in Uganda’s public sector.
