On Saturday, November 7, 2026, St. Paul’s Old Boys Association (SPOBA) held the 7th edition of its Annual Gala at YES Centre Sports Arena in Nsambya, bringing together former students of St. Paul’s Seminary, Kabale, alongside friends, well-wishers and partners for a day of sports, reunion, networking and renewed commitment to their alma mater.
The gathering attracted Old Boys from different generations and cohorts, united by their shared connection to the Seminary and a common desire to contribute to its continued growth and development.
Speaking about the Association’s commitment to its alma mater, SPOBA President, Counsel Jude Byamukama, emphasized the importance of maintaining a strong connection with the Seminary and giving back to the institution that shaped many of its former students.
He noted that SPOBA’s responsibility goes beyond celebrating shared memories. The Association remains committed to supporting the Diocese and the Seminary through infrastructure development, improving facilities, contributing to students’ welfare and complementing the efforts of the Seminary administration in creating a better learning environment.
The President also underscored the importance of mentorship, resource mobilisation and experience-sharing as ways of inspiring and guiding current students. He encouraged Old Boys to remain actively involved in the Association and leverage their professional and social networks as platforms for collaboration, community service and meaningful contribution to their former school.
Representing the Rector, Rev. Fr. Augustine Tumushime, Dn. Peregrino Binomugisha conveyed his appreciation to the SPOBA fraternity for its continued commitment to St. Paul’s Seminary and its contribution to the institution’s development. He particularly recognized the Old Boys’ generosity, continued support and concern for the welfare of students. He encouraged them to sustain the spirit of brotherhood and remain actively involved in shaping the future of their former school.
Also addressing the gathering, Dr. Nicholas Thaddeus Kamara, former Member of Parliament for Kabale Municipality and an Old Boy from Cohort 1987, applauded members for their continued participation in the annual gathering. He encouraged the fraternity to explore ways of transforming the gala into an effective platform for resource mobilisation to support the Seminary and its activities.
The Guest of Honour, the Minister of Health, Hon. Dr. Chris Baryomunsi, an Old Boy from Cohort 1984, commended the Association for keeping the spirit of brotherhood alive. He encouraged members from the different cohorts to embrace the annual sports gala while making their health and well-being a priority.
He emphasized the importance of regular medical check-ups, noting that understanding one’s health status and identifying potential health concerns early can help prevent complications. He later joined fellow Old Boys for an akantu, adding to the celebratory atmosphere of the occasion.
Sports, Reunion and Networking
Football was among the day’s major attractions, as different cohorts took to the pitch in a spirited contest for the championship trophy. Following a series of competitive encounters, Cohort 2010 emerged as the overall winner, taking home the coveted trophy.
Beyond the sporting competition, the gala provided an opportunity for Old Boys to reconnect, renew friendships, share experiences and build networks. The presence of senior members and elders of the fraternity further enriched the gathering, making it a true celebration of the different generations that make up the SPOBA family.
The event was also supported by partners and sponsors, including Uzima Mineral Water, Kigezi Kampala Residents SACCO and Sumz Snacks, whose contributions helped make the occasion a success.
Bishop Gubazire Reaffirms the Importance of Brotherhood
The gala was graced by the Bishop of Kabale Diocese, Rt. Rev. Bishop Bonaventure Bosco Gubazire, himself an Old Boy from Cohort 1988. His presence was a special moment for the fraternity, reflecting the enduring relationship between the Diocese, the Seminary and its former students.
Addressing the Old Boys, Bishop Gubazire commended the fraternity for its continued commitment and contribution to the development of the Diocese. He expressed pride in being part of the St. Paul’s Seminary family and encouraged members to maintain strong ties with their former school.
He also thanked the SPOBA community for the support extended to him during his Episcopal Ordination, as well as for its continued contribution to the welfare and development of their alma mater.
Drawing from his episcopal motto, “Let Your Light Shine,” the Bishop urged the Old Boys to remain united and be a source of inspiration and positive influence to others, encouraging them to live out the values and principles instilled in them during their formative years at the Seminary.
A Brotherhood Beyond Generations
The 7th edition of the SPOBA Annual Gala demonstrated that the bond formed at St. Paul’s Seminary extends far beyond the years spent within its classrooms. For many Old Boys, the gathering was not merely an opportunity to revisit cherished memories but also to create new ones, reconnect with former classmates and strengthen relationships across generations.
It was a powerful reminder that, regardless of where life takes them or the paths they pursue, the Old Boys remain part of one family, united by a shared heritage and a collective responsibility to support the institution that helped shape their lives.
As SPOBA looks to the future, its focus remains on translating this unity into meaningful action. Through sustained engagement, resource mobilisation, mentorship and collaboration, the Association seeks to strengthen its support for St. Paul’s Seminary and contribute to the formation of future generations.
Although the gala came to an end, the spirit of brotherhood, the commitment to the Seminary and the shared responsibility of giving back remain firmly alive.