Deputy Speaker of Parliament Thomas Tayebwa has purchased 100 copies of From Humble Beginnings by Uganda National Examinations Board (UNEB) Executive Director Dan Odongo for distribution to schools in Mitooma District.Tayebwa, who is also the Member of Parliament for Ruhinda County in Mitooma, made the pledge on Friday while serving as the chief guest at the launch of Odongo’s book at Hotel Africana in Kampala.Titled From Humble Beginnings: The Journey of a Teacher Who Rose to Lead a Nation’s Trust, the book traces Odongo’s journey from a humble rural background to his current position as the Executive Director of UNEB.
Tayebwa said Odongo’s story demonstrates the importance of faith, hard work, discipline and perseverance in overcoming challenges and achieving success.“We learn from the book that this journey was shaped by faith, hard work, discipline and perseverance,” Tayebwa said.He noted that Odongo’s story carries important lessons for young people, teachers and public servants, particularly the message that a person’s humble beginnings should not determine their future.Tayebwa said the classroom can serve as an important starting point for people who aspire to contribute to national development.“I will buy some copies of the book and distribute them to schools in Mitooma. I hope it will inspire students to see how far they can go in life,” he said.
The Deputy Speaker also encouraged young people not to despise their humble beginnings, saying determination and hard work can help them achieve their dreams.UNEB Board Chairman Professor Celestino Obua praised the quality of the book, describing it as a remarkable publication.“The quality of the book can’t be described. You may think it is not done from Uganda,” Prof. Obua said.Speaking during the launch, Odongo revealed that proceeds from the sale of the book would be used to establish a foundation aimed at supporting disadvantaged children.Odongo dedicated the book to his late parents, crediting them for playing an important role in ensuring that he received an education despite their own limited educational opportunities.“My parents took very good care of me, ensuring that I went to school, yet my father stopped in Primary 3,” Odongo said.He also expressed concern about what he described as growing challenges facing parenthood, warning parents against neglecting their responsibilities towards their children.“Parents are driving on the fast lane. Later, when life throws you down, they won’t recognize you,” he said.Odongo further reflected on his experience as the head of an examining body, saying the position has taught him patience.“Being a CEO has taught me patience,” he added.A copy of From Humble Beginnings is being sold at Shs100,000.
