Zaujja Ndifuna’s journey reflects her passion for discipline, character-building, and contributing to Uganda’s education sector.
Zaujja Ndifuna’s journey into education began unexpectedly. While in her second year at Makerere University, the institution faced several student strikes, leading the administration to suspend classes for more than six months.
In search of something to do, her father’s close friend invited her to start teaching at Bukoyo Senior Secondary School near her home district of Iganga. Excited, she seized the opportunity, believing it was her chance to fulfil her childhood dream of imparting knowledge.
Little did she know that this would be the beginning of a long and fulfilling career. Ndifuna has never looked back and remains committed to education, rising through the ranks to become a respected administrator and a driving force behind the success of multiple schools. Today, she is the director of the Mbogo Group of Schools, which includes Mbogo High School, Mbogo Secondary and Vocational School, Mbogo College School, Mbogo Mixed Secondary School, and Mbogo Junior School.
A commitment to learning
Ndifuna is also currently pursuing a PhD in Higher Education at Makerere University, as she believes her work is far from complete. Driven by a desire to serve her country and create a significant impact in education, she continuously strives for excellence.
Her educational journey began at Naranbhai Primary School in Jinja, where her father worked with the Jinja Education Municipal Council. She later attended Buckley High School in Iganga, where she sat for the Primary Leaving Examinations (PLE). Ndifuna proceeded to Iganga Secondary School (now Iganga Girls School) for her Ordinary Level (O-Level) studies and then to Kibuli Senior Secondary School for Advanced Level (A-Level), where she studied History, Economics, and Geography.
In 1992, she enrolled at Makerere University for a Bachelor of Arts in Education. Later, she pursued a Master’s degree in Education Management, Administration, and Planning at the same institution, graduating in 2004.
Early career
After completing her degree, Ndifuna joined Kawempe Muslim Senior Secondary School, where she showed immense passion and energy in her work. Her dedication quickly caught the attention of the headteacher, Ibrahim Matovu, who identified her as a potential leader. She was soon appointed matron, which gave her valuable experience in dealing with students and parents. This role paved the way for her to later become head of the Geography department and patron of Mivule House.
In 1995, she was offered the opportunity to head a new girls’ school; Mbogo High School. The school began with just two classes; Senior One and Senior Two. Over the next three decades, Ndifuna built the school into one of the most respected institutions in the region.
The foundation of success
One of the key values that Ndifuna emphasises is discipline. She believes that discipline is foundational to academic success and personal development. By instilling discipline in her students, she ensures they are supported and loved by both teachers and fellow students, which in turn helps them succeed academically and grow into responsible citizens.
Attitude, adaptability, and character are other important traits that Ndifuna looks for in her students. She believes that a combination of these qualities, coupled with discipline, paves the way for success in life and education.
Reflecting on the accomplishments of some of her alumni, Ndifuna is proud to have played a role in shaping the futures of individuals who have gone on to make significant contributions to society.
Among her successful students are Shifra Lukwago, the former deputy Lord Mayor of Kampala and current Uganda Human Rights Commission official, and Ms Barbara Nekesa, a former ambassador of Uganda to South Africa. Other notable alumni include prominent lawyers such as Hanifa Kasana, Angella Nairuba, and Sarah Namulondo.
Overcoming challenges
Looking back, Ndifuna recalls the challenges she faced as a young headteacher. At just 25, many parents doubted her ability to lead the school, often questioning her age and size. They would insist on meeting the "real" headteacher, only to be surprised when she led them to the office and sat behind the desk herself. However, her determination and leadership skills quickly earned the respect of the parents and staff, proving that age and appearance are not indicators of capability.
Navigating the competitive sector
Over the years, Ndifuna has witnessed increasing competition in the private education sector. Attracting qualified teachers and students is no longer solely about reputation; financial incentives and good facilities are essential. To address this, she looked to sister schools for support, helping to attract quality teachers and increasing student enrolment by admitting students who had not been accepted into other schools.
Ndifuna has also prioritised the development of strong systems and standards within her schools, guided by a strategic plan that is regularly reviewed to ensure continuous improvement. This focus on growth has contributed to her personal development in management, people skills, and administration.
Leadership beyond the classroom
Ndifuna has led various initiatives, including government programmes such as SESEMAT (the Science and Mathematics Teaching Programme introduced by the Japanese government). She has also served as the national vice chairperson of the Federation of Non-State Education Institutions, an organisation recognised by the Ministry of Education. Through this role, she is involved in the National Curriculum Development Centre (NCDC), where she serves on both the academic steering board and the appointments disciplinary committee.
Ndifuna believes that education is the key to unlocking opportunities, and she is passionate about ensuring that every child has access to it. She is especially proud of the recently concluded work of the Education Policy Review Commission, which recommended holding parents accountable for not sending their children to school.
She is also an advocate for equipping students with practical skills that will enable them to contribute meaningfully to society, citing countries such as China, where children are taught essential life skills from an early age.
About new curriculum
As she looks toward the future, Ndifuna’s aspirations are focused on contributing to the higher education sector. She hopes to eventually lecture at a university and share her wealth of experience with the next generation of education leaders.
Throughout her 30-year journey, Ndifuna’s commitment to building discipline, character, and excellence in her students remains unwavering.
ABOUT NEW CURRICULUM
The educationist supports the new lower secondary curriculum, which allows for more creativity and interaction in the classroom, enabling students to apply the knowledge they gain. However, she acknowledges the challenges that come with change, emphasising the need for collaboration between parents, teachers, curriculum designers, the government, and the Ministry of Education to address the gaps that still exist in the system.
