Congratulations are in order for Mr. Francis Wangolo, Principal of St. Mary’s College Mayenze, who has successfully graduated with a Master of Arts in Public Administration & Management from Nkumba University. This milestone marks a significant achievement in his long-standing dedication to education, governance, and public service.
Wangolo’s research focused on “Assessing the Contributions of Parish Development Model on Household Incomes: A Case Study of Manafwa Town Council, Manafwa District Local Government.” His study explored how government programs, including the Parish Development Model, have helped improve the livelihoods of ordinary Ugandans.
He dedicated his achievement to his late grandfather, Paul Kalaija Bwendegyere, a principled politician from Kabale District who opposed the UPC at a time when many of his Democratic Party colleagues had crossed to the ruling party. Wangolo credits his grandfather for supporting his education and inspiring him through courage, integrity, and a lifelong commitment to justice.
“I dedicate this degree to my grandfather, who showed that integrity, courage, and service to the people are the true measures of leadership,” Wangolo said.
Before earning his Master’s degree, Wangolo had already built a strong foundation in public administration. He holds a Bachelor of Public Administration (BPA) from the Islamic University in Uganda (IUIU) and a Postgraduate Diploma in Urban Governance and Management (DUGM) from Uganda Management Institute (UMI). These qualifications, combined with his professional experience, have equipped him with a broad understanding of governance and public service.
Wangolo currently serves in multiple leadership roles. He is the Principal Township Officer for Butiru Town Council in Manafwa District, Principal of St. Mary’s College Mayenze, and Head of Laity at St. Augustine of Hippo Parish Situmi. He also coordinates the Uganda Local Government Workers Union (ULGWU) in Eastern Uganda, advocating for better pay and conditions for local government employees.
In addition to his administrative work, Wangolo has been active in political advocacy. He chaired the Forum for Third Term Advocacy, supporting President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, and has previously contested the Bubulo West Parliamentary seat, finishing third among nine candidates with 14,000 votes in the 2005/2006 elections.
His work has consistently focused on improving local governance and implementing development programs. Through the Parish Development Model, Wangolo has worked to increase household incomes and ensure essential services reach communities more effectively.
Born to a mother from Western Uganda and a father from Eastern Uganda, Wangolo’s upbringing exposed him to diverse regions of the country. This broad perspective has shaped his approach to governance and community service, emphasizing inclusivity and development for all Ugandans.
“This graduation is not just a personal achievement. It is a commitment to serve my community, strengthen governance, and contribute to Uganda’s development,” he said. Mr. Francis Wangolo’s journey is a story of perseverance, leadership, and dedication to public service—a testament to his lifelong mission to improve education, governance, and the well-being of Ugandans.
