The Reverend Father Damian Grimes, a Mill Hill Missionary widely regarded as one of Uganda’s most influential educators, will be laid to rest in Namasagali, Uganda, following his passing at age 93 in Liverpool, UK, on September 4, 2024.
Sources close to the funeral arrangements have confirmed to the Nile Post that Fr Grimes’ body will be repatriated to Uganda in accordance with his final wishes. The Namasagali Old Students Association is coordinating efforts to bring his remains back to the country where he left an indelible mark on education.
“Advance plans are in place for a service here and for his body to be returned to Uganda,” a source involved in the UK funeral planning stated. Catherine Tabingwa, an alumna of Namasagali College, added, “He will be buried at Namasagali College as one of his death wishes, so plans are underway to bring back his body.”
Fr Grimes served as the headteacher of Namasagali College from 1967, transforming the institution into a beacon of holistic education in Uganda. His innovative approach emphasized a balance between academics and extracurricular activities, particularly in music, dance, and drama.
Patrick Bitatura, a prominent Ugandan businessman and entrepreneur, told the Nile Post that the old students’ association is working to involve all key stakeholders in the funeral arrangements. “We want to make sure that all stakeholders feel that they are involved and get a fair share,” Bitatura said, noting Fr Grimes’ impact extended beyond Namasagali College to other institutions like Namilyango College.
In the interim, Bitatura has offered the gardens of his Protea Hotel in Kololo, Kampala, for a vigil until a definitive funeral plan is established.
Fr Grimes’ educational philosophy revolutionized learning at Namasagali College. He mandated participation in extracurricular activities for all students, making the school renowned for its performances in drama, dance, and music. The school’s productions became a staple at Uganda’s National Theatre and on national television.
Under Fr Grimes’ leadership, Namasagali College produced numerous notable alumni who have gone on to become leaders in various fields. These include Rebecca Kadaga, First Deputy Prime Minister of Uganda; Charles Mbire, a prominent businessman; and Robert Kabushenga, former CEO of Vision Group.
The Mill Hill Missionaries, Fr Grimes’ religious order, announced his passing on social media, stating that further details, including funeral arrangements, would be provided at a later date.
Fr Grimes’ legacy in Uganda’s education sector is marked by his emphasis on developing well-rounded individuals. As Grace Flavia Ibanda, a former student and dance professional, noted, Fr Grimes instilled in his students the ability to build character, negotiate space and time, work with diverse people, and utilize any available resources.
The repatriation of Fr Grimes’ body to Namasagali symbolizes the closing of an earthly chapter for a man who dedicated his life to shaping generations of Ugandan youth. His burial at Namasagali College will serve as a lasting testament to his profound impact on education in Uganda.
Source: nilepost.co.ug
