I would have loved to be a journalist

MESHACK KALWAZA is the English language teacher for Primary 6 and Head of the English Department at Kigali Parents School in Kigali. He talked to Education Times’ Grace Gatera about his journey into the teaching worldWho is Meshack Kalwaza?Meshack is a Musoga from Kamuli District in Uganda. I was born in 1977 to the Late Mbooli John and the late Kagoya Lovisa. I am the fifth born in a family of nine. My father passed away when I was in P.3 and I was raised by my mother. She also passed away when I got to Kyambogo University.Which schools did attend?I went to Kisozi Primary school in Kamuli for my entire primary school and then went to Kiira College Butiiki in Jinja for my O’ level education. Due to a lack of funds, I went to Jinja Primary Teachers’ College for a certificate after O’ level. After that I went to Kyambogo University for a tutoring course.Why did you choose to be a teacher?Honestly, I love teaching but it wasn’t among my life options. However found out earlier on in life to accept life and the way it serves up something.What schools have you taught at before?Three schools; Nkrumah Primary School Kiboga, FDK Standard School in Kampala and Kigali Parents School where I am currently.What do you do in your leisure time?I read, or watch sports and sometimes movies, but mostly, I read because I love books.How long have you been teaching?Since 2001, so I have gained a bit of experience.Who is your role model?My headmaster from Primary school. That man was the most level headed individual I have had the opportunity to meet.What are your best and worst moments of your career?Well, one time I asked a child to wrap his book before he brought it for marking. When I got the book, it had the words “stupid man” on the cover. I was so shocked. That is the single most hurting and worst moment of my career. The best moments are every year when I see the candidates I have taught passing highly in my subject.What would you have been if you had not become a teacher?A journalist. It is still one of my secret wishes.Is there anything that the public or your students do not know that you would love to share?Not really, I am a very open person.Any advice to your students?The effort that is pulled should be accompanied by prayer, because God is the source of wisdom.