Mengo Senior School

The Missionary Era (1895-1904): In the early days of missionaries in Uganda, Mengo Senior School emerged as a strategic tool to spread the Word of God and transform lives. Founded in 1895, an elementary mixed school, Kayanja, marked the inception at Mengo, the then capital of Uganda. The humble beginnings were marked by reed walls and a grass roof. Chadwick and the Basizi: Miss Chadwick, a missionary, played a pivotal role, inviting young men known as Basizi into her house for prayers and learning. In 1901, Mr. Charles William Hattersley took over, and as the number grew, a boarding school was established on Namirembe Hill, generously provided by Sir Apollo Kaggwa. Separation of Girls and Boys: While initially a mixed school, Mengo faced challenges in bringing girls for education. The decision to separate girls led to the founding of Gayaza Girls' School. The struggle for fees ensued, with parents questioning the cost for girls' education. The Birth of Mengo High School (1904-1905): In 1904, the Church Missionary Society resolved to build two new schools, including one at Namirembe Hill—Mengo High School. By the end of that year, the school had four brick houses, a schoolhouse, and a fence. The formal opening on January 25, 1905, marked a significant milestone. Expansion and Split (1907): As demand for education increased, the school expanded its capacity to 250 boys. The original building became a dormitory, and two new dormitories were erected. In 1907, a large building was opened by Mr. Winston Churchill. The school split into junior (Mengo Primary School) and senior (Mengo Central School) sections.