For many, the years spent in high school may blur into the distance of time, as life moves forward and people cross borders to start anew, often without reflecting on those who shaped their foundations.

But for the former students of Emmanuel Mudidi, a dedicated educator and leader whose career spanned multiple countries and roles including Minister of Education in Rwanda, Director of the Kigali Institute of Education, and a key figure in shaping Botswana’s education system—those years remain as vivid and transformative as ever.

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On Saturday , January 4, a reunion took place at Mudidi’s home in Rusororo, Rwanda. After half a century, his former students of Gayaza High School, the oldest Girls’ Secondary School in Uganda, now accomplished professionals scattered across the globe, returned to thank the man who had impacted their academic and personal journeys.

The event was a profound reminder of the lasting influence a teacher can have on their students.

When alumni of 1972 to 1977, arrived at Mudidi’s home around 4pm, it was a joyful reunion filled with laughter, sharing meals, handing over gifts to him and nostalgia as they shared stories of high school and reflected on how their former teacher shaped their lives.

Edna Rugumayo, a Certified Public Accountant in Uganda, recalls Mudidi as a strict disciplinarian and a perfectionist who pushed students to excel.

"Many of us did excel. His methods made mathematics seem simple. He taught us to have a keen eye for detail,” Rugumayo said.

She emphasized the fundamental role educators play in shaping a person’s future. "Teachers are the foundation of who we become. Our character is built during our school years. Good educators help build the future of society and must be appreciated,” she added.

Despite Mudidi’s stern approach, his former students acknowledged the humility and dedication that made him unforgettable.

"We met as students 50 years ago, and today, we’re successful women because of his guidance,” they said.

The alumni, whose group now numbers 45 to 52 members, remain close-knit, staying connected through a WhatsApp group.

"Though we’re spread across the world, our bond remains strong,” they noted.

The alumni also fondly recalled how Gayaza High School taught more than academics, it instilled values such as discipline, integrity, and leadership.

"It wasn’t just about passing exams; it was about preparing us to lead and survive in life,” one alumna said.

Justine Gashumba Twahirwa, a social worker and farmer, also shared her memories of Mudidi’s organised and punctual approach to teaching Economics at A-level.

"He was very disciplined, and I learned the importance of neatness from him,” she said.

Twahirwa stressed how much educators helped build their self-confidence, stressing that their teachers believed in them and pushed them to excel.

"We earned government scholarships to Makerere University, the only university in Uganda at the time. When educators believe in their students, it motivates them to work hard,” she reflected.

Evelyn Rutagwenda, an alumna, recalls her time under the guidance of her teacher, Mudidi, who taught her Geography, Economics, and Mathematics during A-level.

Rutagwenda highlighted the high level of integrity that Mudidi instilled in her, a value that has been pivotal throughout her professional career and board memberships.

She also stressed the strong sense of community and connection that Gayaza High School alumni maintain with their former teachers, noting that many of them, even those now retired or deceased, are celebrated by former students.

One alumna traveled from Canada, another from the UK, eight from Uganda, and three reside in Rwanda.

The life of Mudidi from teaching to retirement

Mudidi’s teaching journey began in 1972 when, still a university student at Makerere University in Uganda, he briefly taught physics at Gayaza. It was a glimpse into the world of education that left a lasting impression.

By 1974, he returned as a full-time teacher, where he taught mathematics and economics for five years. Many of his students have since risen to prominent roles, their lives forever shaped by his passion for education.

Reflecting on his impact, Mudidi said, "It’s by the grace of God that they remember me. When I taught them, I didn’t know I was making such an impact. But now, seeing where they’ve gone in life fills me with immense pride.”

He was surprised to learn that, despite his strictness, his students had fond memories of him.

"When I left those schools, students cried. It made me rethink my approach,” he said with a smile.

Mudidi’s role at Gayaza was just the beginning of a distinguished career.

After leaving Uganda, he spent eight years teaching at Alliance High School in Kenya.

He then transitioned to international work with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), spending two years with the organization before moving to Botswana, where he spent an additional nine years contributing to the development of the country’s education system.

In 1996, Mudidi returned to Rwanda to assist in establishing the National Examinations Council. His leadership abilities were quickly recognized, and in 1999, he was appointed Minister of Education, a position he held until 2002.

He continued to leave an indelible mark on Rwanda’s education system, serving as Director of the Kigali Institute of Education (KIE) until 2008.

He went on to serve in Rwanda’s Parliament from 2008 to 2018.

When asked about his retirement, Mudidi smiled. "I don’t call it retirement. I’ve simply changed jobs. You can’t retire while you’re still alive.” His work continues through various community projects, reflecting his commitment to lifelong learning and purpose.

A key to his enduring vitality, Mudidi believes, is his faith. "It’s Jesus,” he said simply. His Christian beliefs and spirituality have been guided by his work and approach to life. He sees his passion for teaching and his drive to help others as a sense of a higher purpose.

Despite his many other commitments, Mudidi still finds time to enjoy simple pleasures. In his free time, he keeps fit, by walking, and stretching and he enjoys reading books on philosophy, political theory, and the Bible, revealing his belief in staying intellectually sharp.

Family is another central pillar in his life. Married, with one son, and three grandchildren, Mudidi is surrounded by loved ones. He values his extended family, both biological and spiritual, which adds richness to his life.

Looking back at his journey, Mudidi traces his inspiration to his own secondary school years, when a mathematics teacher sparked his interest in the subject.

"I wanted to be like that teacher. But it wasn’t just emulation, it was a sense of purpose. Sometimes, I feel it was the will of God that I became a teacher,” he said.

Mudidi recalls a time after finishing form four when many of his peers aspired to become pilots. However, he remembers rejecting this idea, saying, " I can’t be a taxi driver.”

For Mudidi, the path forward was always clear; he wanted to pursue mathematics, not because of the potential for wealth, but because of a deep passion for excellence in what he did.

Teaching for him was never just about imparting knowledge; it was about making a difference.

"To see the fruits of my labor, to know I played a part in their success, that’s the greatest reward,” he said.

When asked about his advice to today’s youth, he said, " Whatever you do, do it with excellence. People might try to mislead you or tempt you into shortcuts, but if you put your heart into your work, excellence will always shine through.”