Boda Rider Bunkedeko, 41, Parks His Motorcycle to Sit UACE

Bunkedeko, a student at Pride Secondary School in Mityana, dreams of becoming a lawyer. Now that he has completed high school, he believes his future will be bright.

By Catherine Namugerwa

Emmanuel Bunkedeko, 41, is a boda boda rider at the Katumba Stage in Mityana Municipality. He is one of the students sitting for their Senior Six examinations, which officially began today.

Bunkedeko, a student at Pride Secondary School in Mityana, dreams of becoming a lawyer. Now that he has completed high school, he believes his future will be bright.

Despite facing several obstacles, including long work hours, family obligations, and age-based stereotypes, Bunkedeko is dedicated to reaching his goal. Although doubts have arisen along the way, his determination has inspired others.

Bunkedeko is committed to supporting his family while also pursuing his academic goals.

He has faced conflicting responses from his family and community regarding his decision to return to school at the age of 33, with some people skeptical due to his age and profession.

At precisely 7am, Bunkedeko arrived at Pride Secondary School on his boda boda, fully dressed in his school uniform, ready to sit for his Senior Six final exams.

A boda boda rider at Katumba Stage in Mityana Municipality and a resident of Butega village, Bunkedeko explains that financial constraints prevented him from sitting for his Primary Leaving Examinations in 1998.

Twenty years later, Bunkedeko decided to return to school after missing out on several opportunities due to his lack of education.

He notes that some primary schools turned him away because of his age and profession as a boda boda rider, but he refused to give up.

Despite riding a loaned motorcycle, Bunkedeko has dedicated most of his time to studying, determined to change his future for the better.

He feels well-prepared and is optimistic about passing his exams and pursuing his dream.

Ann Tukahirwa, the deputy headmaster at Pride Secondary School, describes Bunkedeko as a motivated student.

The school is confident in his success, given his ability to balance work and academics effectively. The school expects Bunkedeko to pass with flying colours.