education 29 September 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
30-Year-Old Builder Pursues Primary Education in Mayuge
Gabriel Odda, a 30-year-old builder and father of one, has enrolled in Primary Seven at Butangala Primary School in Mayuge District, aiming to sit for his Primary Leaving Examinations (PLE) this November. His decision stems from a missed educational opportunity due to financial constraints in his youth. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/mayuge-builder-30-enrolls-in-p7-for-second-chance-at-education-5613212
At the age of 30, Gabriel Odda is embarking on a new educational journey, joining fellow pupils in Primary Seven at Butangala Primary School. This builder and father from Busakira Village is driven by a desire to complete the education he couldn’t pursue earlier in life due to his parents’ financial struggles.
The catalyst for Odda’s return to school was a rejection for a role as an election official in the 2026 General Elections, an opportunity he missed due to a lack of academic qualifications. This setback fueled his determination to obtain the necessary education.
Initially, Odda faced some hurdles in gaining admission. The headteacher, Kasim Balegeya, admitted that he first denied Odda a place due to a lack of admission forms. However, after a third visit, accompanied by his sister who explained his circumstances, Odda was finally admitted.
“When she explained his situation to me, I was able to consider admitting him,” Balegeya stated. Odda has since integrated well into school life, described by the headteacher as “social, courageous and hardworking,” and is showing progressive improvement with the support of his teachers.
Odda views his education not just as a means to a certificate, but as a pathway to becoming a professional builder, addressing the gaps he’s identified in his work, particularly in calculations and English. He credits local leader Nicholas Ndhooro for encouraging him and informing him about opportunities under the Kyabazinga Initiative.
His wife, Justine Nakibuuka, has been a pillar of support, acknowledging that education has no age limit and encouraging him to pursue his goal. She actively assists him with his homework and ensures he balances his studies with family responsibilities.
Despite initial mockery from friends, Odda remained focused, and their jokes have since subsided. He maintains a rigorous schedule, waking early to attend classes. While family and work sometimes require him to miss school, he makes sure to catch up on missed lessons. His commitment serves as an inspiration to the youth in his community, demonstrating that it’s never too late to pursue education.
Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)