ASSUMPTION OF OUR LADY CATHOLIC SCHOOLS MARK 8 YEARS OF RESILIENT SUCCESS*
Riimenze, 22 November, Joy, colour, and deep gratitude filled the Assumption of Our Lady Catholic Schools today as the community celebrated eight remarkable years of resilient growth, academic excellence, and holistic formation. The event featured the graduation of the Top Class Kindergarten, the blessing of Primary Eight candidates preparing for their national examinations next week, and a special blessing of all teachers and staff.
Presiding over the celebration, Barani Eduardo Hiiboro the Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Tombura-Yambio, praised the tremendous progress of the schools, calling Riimenze “the rising hub of quality and holistic education in Western Equatoria and in South Sudan at large.”
The Four Pillars of Transformation
In his uplifting message, the Bishop encouraged learners and educators with his now well-known four IQ pillars:
– Theological IQ – placing the all-knowing God first.
– Academic IQ – striving for excellence and deep learning.
– Emotional IQ – nurturing discipline, empathy, and character.
– Gratitude IQ – living a life of service for others.
“These,” he emphasized, “give birth to IQ Wonder, the holistic achievement that forms a society ready to solve its own chronic problems.”
A Vision Fulfilled, A Future Unfolding
Bishop Eduardo reminded the congregation that his founding intention, investing and entrusting the institution to the Brothers of Christian Instruction from Uganda, was to build a school system of truly national character, a place where children from every tribe, region, and background in South Sudan can grow into responsible leaders.
Today, Riimenze proudly hosts:
– Two Kindergartens
– Two Primary Schools
– One Secondary School
– And soon, a Technical Skills Training Centre and Higher Learning Institutions.
“With such quality education here at home,” the Bishop noted, “parents need not struggle to send their children to Uganda.
What we need, both for strong basic education and higher studies, is ready here in Riimenze.”
Gratitude to Partners and Custodians
Warm appreciation was extended to:
– The Azande King, for generously providing the land where the schools stand.
– Sudan Relief Fund and other major donors, for their unwavering financial support.
– The Government of Western Equatoria State, for their collaboration and encouragement.
– The SSPDF Commander, Brigadier Aketch, for ensuring a safe and peaceful learning environment.
Voices of Hope and Commitment
Brother Achiles Chiwanuka, the School Director, expressed strong optimism for the future, thanking all partners and reaffirming the Brothers’ commitment:
“Riimenze will be our mother base from which we shall grow and expand to all corners of South Sudan, Upper Nile, Eastern Equatoria, Lakes, Western Bahr el Ghazal, and beyond.”
He emphasized that the increasing number of South Sudanese candidates joining the Brothers guarantees smooth leadership transition from the Ugandan Brothers to local South Sudanese religious educators.
Brigadier Aketch, praised the school’s leadership and assured continued collaboration and security support.
Representing His Majesty King Atoroba Peni Rikito, Hon. Siro, conveyed the King’s blessings, affirming that the Azande Kingdom firmly supports education and culture:
“This school is of great quality. Parents no longer need to send children to Uganda when we have such excellence right here.”
The School Parents Committee represented by Madam Victoria, expressed pride and encouraged continued unity and support.
The Parish Priest and Chaplain, Fr. Charles Mbikoyo, shared his joy in the school’s success and pledged his full pastoral support.
Children celebrated with happiness and gratitude, giving thanks to everyone who contributes to their future.
A Rare Gesture of Appreciation
As a sign of gratitude, Bishop Eduardo awarded two scholarships annually to the Bridgeate Military Base in Yambio for children under their care, an exceptional and unprecedented gesture.
The SSPDF leadership expressed deep appreciation for this honour, calling it “the highest consideration ever shown.”
A National Hub of Hope
Bishop Eduardo reaffirmed his dream of making Riimenze the national hub of Catholic education, attracting students from across South Sudan, young people who will know themselves deeply, learn wisely, and become innovators, peacebuilders, and problem-solvers capable of lifting the nation beyond cycles of poverty and violence.
“Let all families embrace this blessing,” the Bishop urged. “Riimenze is our gift from God, an educational beacon for our children, our communities, and our nation.”
The Catholic Diocese of Tombura-Yambio will continue to supplement the efforts of the government in providing quality holistic Education.
