Fr Damian Grimes was laid to rest on Saturday

Ex-Namasagali headteacher Fr Damian Grimes buried in Kamuli

by · The Observer

Legendary Namasagali College headteacher, Father Damian Grimes, was laid to rest in Kamuli, eastern Uganda, on Saturday, as former students and dignitaries gathered to pay their respects.

Grimes, who passed away after a lifetime of service, was remembered for his immense contributions to Uganda’s education system and for nurturing generations of young people into successful and responsible adults.

Among the many tributes was one from President Yoweri Museveni, who described him as a selfless individual, fully committed to the betterment of others, often at the cost of his own well-being. In a message delivered by businessman and former Namasagali College student, Patrick Bitature, Museveni highlighted Grimes’ unwavering dedication to his students, regardless of their social or economic backgrounds.

The president noted that Grimes' non-sectarian approach, which focused on merit and character rather than identity, endeared him to his students and left an enduring legacy in Uganda’s education system. Museveni highlighted that Fr Grimes lived by the principle of prioritizing people’s interests over their identities, a philosophy that contributed to his widespread admiration.

"It is more crucial to emphasize the people's interest as opposed to their identity. Since his death, many people have sung praises of how he transformed Namasagali College into a model school. He was passionate about ensuring that our young people attain quality education and skills," said Museveni. 

Adding: "If he'd treated people according to their religion, or tribe or race and gender, we would not have had such an impact on their lives. Therefore, he leaves behind a legacy of non-secretariasm and selfless service to others. He endeavoured to give his students an all-rounded education with focus on their mental, physical, social, moral and spiritual development."

In recognition of his contributions to the education sector, Museveni awarded Fr Grimes a national medal in 2020. He urged Ugandans to emulate the late priest’s values of selflessness and dedication to others.

"He will be remembered for touching and transforming the lives of students that went through his hands. The most befitting tribute that can rendered to the beautiful memory and legacy of Father Grimes is emulating his good works. His steadfastness, courage, selflessness and love for others will always remain as a shining example for many generations. While he may have rested, he continued to live through the many lives that he touched and transformed," added Museveni.

Bitature’s tribute

Patrick Bitature, who was once expelled from Namasagali College by Grimes, shared a personal story that underscored the priest’s fatherly care. Bitature recounted how he was expelled, along with his female friends, after they visited him while he was recovering in the school’s sick bay. Despite this, Grimes continued to support Bitature, solidifying a lifelong father-son bond between them.

Their relationship deepened further in 1984 when Fr Grimes intervened to secure Bitature’s release from detention by the government of then-President Milton Obote. Mistaken for a supporter of Museveni’s bush war, Bitature was arrested by state operatives. Grimes, with the help of Obote’s children, boldly demanded his release, saying, "Your sons are here, but you have detained mine. Release him now."

Grimes' legacy at Namasagali

Damian Grimes was a member of the Mill Hill Missionaries (MHM) and served as a clerical priest for over 30 years. He revolutionized Uganda’s education sector by transforming the former Busoga railway terminal into the renowned Namasagali College, located 23 kilometres from Kamuli town. Under his leadership, the school attracted students from across Africa, becoming a hub of academic excellence and talent development.

Grimes was committed to nurturing his students’ intellectual abilities through both academic achievements and extracurricular activities, particularly in sports and the performing arts. He believed in producing well-rounded individuals equipped to excel in a competitive world.

A strict disciplinarian, Fr Grimes was known for enforcing a rigorous code of conduct, which included over 200 rules. Among these was an emphasis on caring for others, with any breaches potentially leading to dismissal. He also established judicial committees where students could address disciplinary issues in an open forum before final verdicts were issued.

Praise from former students

Moses Kizige, Uganda’s Ambassador to Russia and a former student of Namasagali College, credited Fr. Grimes with instilling self-confidence and leadership skills that have served him throughout his career. Kizige, who previously represented Bugabula North in parliament, said that Fr. Grimes’ practical teaching methods prepared them for leadership roles and helped them transcend various challenges with dignity.

Other prominent figures who attended Namasagali College under Fr Grimes’ stewardship include Rebecca Kadaga, Uganda’s First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of East African Affairs. Kadaga lauded Grimes for creating a platform where all students, regardless of their backgrounds, could thrive.

Similarly, Salaam Musumba, former LCV chairperson of Kamuli district, acknowledged Grimes for encouraging students to reach their full potential, even those with prior disciplinary issues.

Grimes’ contributions to Uganda’s education system and his unwavering commitment to his students’ success have left an indelible mark on countless lives.

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