By Mike Rwothomio

Zombo, Uganda: Nickolas Odeba, the outgoing District Education Officer (DEO) of Zombo, has retired from public service after a distinguished tenure marked by significant contributions to improving educational outcomes in the district.

Odeba, aged 60, assumed the role of DEO in 2019 following a brief period as headteacher of Jangokoro Seed Secondary School in 2018.

His retirement was celebrated last week at a vibrant ceremony held at Oturtgang Boys Primary School in Paidha Town Council, attended by hundreds of education stakeholders from across the region.

In his farewell address, Odeba expressed gratitude to his colleagues for their collaborative efforts during his six-year leadership of the district’s education sector.

The Outgoing Zombo District Education Officer Nickolas .

He articulated his guiding principle: “To enhance the growth, success, and sustainability of the institution I serve through effective interpersonal and negotiation skills, striving to be an exemplary leader.”

Zombo’s Assistant Chief Administrative Officer, Ephraim, lauded Odeba’s diligent service, urging other educators to emulate his example.

“We value your contributions and recognize your expertise as a resource we may call upon even in retirement,” Ephraim noted.

The Local Council V Chairperson, James Oruna Oyullu, praised Odeba’s cooperative relationship with political leaders, which facilitated notable advancements in staff recruitment and academic performance.

 “During your tenure, we recruited 92 Senior Education Assistants, appointed 47 deputy headteachers, and recently onboarded 45 teachers,” Oyullu stated, acknowledging progress despite financial constraints.

Odeba’s academic credentials include a Master of Education in Educational Leadership and Management from Aga Khan University Institute of Educational Development, East Africa, and extensive professional development, including training in transformational leadership and conflict resolution.

Stakeholders at the gathering.

His legacy includes spearheading several secondary school infrastructure projects, such as Amei, Kango, Alangi, and the completed Atyak Seed Secondary School.

Nasis Binwengi, a district councilor representing workers, commended Odeba’s tireless advocacy for education in a region still facing developmental challenges.

Raymond Ombere, Arua City Education Officer and national chairperson of district and municipal education officers, praised Odeba’s unblemished record, highlighting his integrity and commitment to ethical leadership.

Challenges Facing Education in Zombo

Despite these achievements, Zombo’s education sector faces significant hurdles. Schools grapple with dilapidated infrastructure, a 10% dropout rate, and a high incidence of teenage pregnancies.

Francis Bolingo, a district councilor from Athuma Sub-County, acknowledged improvements but emphasized the urgent need to address staffing shortages. 

“The government must prioritize closing the staffing gap to sustain progress,” he urged.

Education and job background

Since February 2019, the officer has served as Zombo’s District Education Officer, overseeing educational development in the region.

Prior to this, he held pivotal roles across Uganda, including Head-Teacher at Jangokoro Seed SS (2018–2019) and St. Charles Lwanga College in Koboko (2008–2018). He also served as Acting Head-Teacher at Kasule Seed SS in Kyegegwa (2007–2008), Deputy Head-Teacher (2001–2006), and Care-taker Deputy Head-Teacher (1999–2000) at St. Maria Goretti SS in Katende-Mpigi.

His early career included teaching positions at St. Maria Goretti SS (1994–1999) and St. Henry Girls’ SS in Wakiso (1992–2000).

The officer’s academic journey is equally impressive. He earned a Master of Education from Makerere University in 2016, with a project focused on strategic planning in rural secondary schools. He also hold a Bachelor of Arts with Education (2nd Upper Division Honours, 1992) from Makerere University, following strong performances in secondary education at Mvara and Vurra Secondary Schools and primary education at Palwo Primary School.

His professional development includes a Certificate in Educational Leadership (Aga Khan University, 2014) and participation in workshops on transformational leadership, peacebuilding, strategic planning, and behavior change, organized by prestigious institutions, the British Council and Aga Khan University.

Odeba’s departure marks the end of an era, but his contributions lay a foundation for continued efforts to strengthen education in Zombo amidst ongoing challenges.