How Sam Bob Okino’s Leadership Brought Lango College Back to the Top in 2024 UCE Exams

By Agency 

Lango College, once a beacon of academic excellence in Northern Uganda, had lost its academic glory over the years. Once known for producing top scholars and leaders, the school struggled with declining performance, dwindling enrollment, and a loss of community trust. However, the arrival of Sam Bob Okino an experienced educator as headteacher few years marked the beginning of a remarkable progress. 

Through his dedication, innovative leadership, and deep commitment to education, Okino has commanded the revival of Lango College, restoring its lost glory and hope for students, parents, and the broader community.

A Legacy in Decline

Lango College, founded over 4 decades ago was once a premier institution in northen Uganda. 

Its alumni include prominent figures in Uganda’s political in the country like Denis Hamson Obua the current government chief whip of Uganda, academic, and professional spheres. 

However, by the early 2010s, the school faced numerous challenges like poor academic performance, inadequate infrastructure, teacher absenteeism, and student indiscipline among others leading to its downfall. 

Many parents opted to send their children to schools in other region and private schools, further exacerbating the decline.

When Sam Bob Okino took over as headteacher, he was acutely aware of the uphill battle ahead. 

As a seasoned educator with a reputation for turning around struggling schools and helping students achieve their acedmic goals, Okino brought with him a clear vision and a passion for transformative change.

“When I first arrived at Lango College, I saw potential,” Okino recalls. “The students were eager to learn, and the teachers were capable, but the system was broken. My goal was to rebuild trust, instill discipline, and create an environment where excellence could thrive.”

Restoring Discipline and Morale

One of Okino’s first priorities was addressing the issue of discipline. 

He introduced a strict code of conduct for both students and teachers, emphasizing punctuality, respect, and accountability.

 Regular assemblies became a platform for motivating students and reinforcing the school’s core values.

“Discipline is the foundation of success,” Okino often says. “Without it, even the brightest minds cannot achieve their full potential.”

To boost teacher morale, Okino implemented professional development programs and ensured discipline among students. 

He also fostered a collaborative environment where teachers felt valued and empowered to innovate in their teaching methods.

ACADEMIC ARRIVAL: 

Under Okino’s leadership, Lango College has seen a dramatic improvement in academic performance. He reintroduced mandatory study hours, established a robust monitoring system to track student progress, and introduced remedial classes for struggling learners.

The results have been perfect, In 2024, Uganda Certificate of Education (UCE) examinations results, Lango College recorded a 100 percentage pass rate, compared to the previous year. 

The school has produced all candidates with good grades with majorities scoring A, B, C in all the subjects as grading in the .

“Mr. Okino has changed the way we approach learning,” says one of the students of Senior Four. “He encourages us to aim high and supports us every step of the way.”

Infrastructure Development

Recognizing the importance of a conducive learning environment, Okino spearheaded several infrastructure projects. He is currently lobbying the government and private donors to support the renovation of classrooms, build new science laboratories, and upgrade the school’s library.

“A good learning environment inspires students to excel,” Okino explains. “We are committed to providing the best facilities for our learners.”

Community Particicpation 

Okino understands that the success of a school depends on the support of the community. 

He has worked tirelessly to rebuild trust with parents and local leaders, holding regular meetings to update them on the school’s progress and address their concerns.

He has brought transparency and accountability to Lango College,” says Isaac Odongo a member of the school’s Parents-Teachers Association. 

Odongo adde thah they are proud of the impressive results. 

Today, Lango College is once again a symbol of academic excellence in Lango. Enrollment has increased, and the school is attracting top talent from across the district.

 Okino’s vision and dedication have not only restored the school’s lost glory but also inspired a new generation of learners to dream big.

“Our work is far from over,” Okino says. “We are committed to continuous improvement and ensuring that Lango College remains a center of excellence for years to come.”

As Lango College continues to rise, Sam Bob Okino’s legacy as a transformative leader and dedicated educator is firmly cemented. His story is a testament to the power of visionary leadership and the enduring impact of investing in education.

Addressing the large crwod of journalists at the dedicated headteacher attributed good results to discipline and teacher's commitment towards work.

He said all they candidates have got level of grade of A and B with few scoring D grade.

He added all they candidates have obtained Uganda Certificate of Uganda with result 1 as required in the grading of the new circularum. 

Who is Sam Bob Okino

Okino taught in several prominet schools in Uganda before assuming office as headteacher at Lango College, he taught in schools, like Aduku Secondary school, Topa, Tororo Progressive.

Okino has raised and produced many succeful personalities in the this country and his viewed by many as a game changer, when he joined Lango College, there was alot celebrations.