The family of the late Professor Jethro Ariko Opolot has called upon the Government of Uganda, through the Ministry of Education and Sports, as well as the Iteso Cultural Union (ICU), to construct a mausoleum at his burial site in honor of his outstanding contributions to education in Uganda.
Speaking on behalf of the family, Lawyer Joshua Okello emphasized Professor Opolot’s transformative impact on Uganda’s education system, lamenting that his contributions have not been sufficiently recognized by the government.
He urged the Ministry of Education and Sports, Makerere University, the Iteso Cultural Union, and President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, along with other influential Teso leaders, to acknowledge and support this cause.
“My grandfather’s effort to transform Uganda’s education system has not been appreciated by the NRM government ever since his passing,” Okello stated.
“Most of our leaders are focused on politics of blackmail instead of unity, which can lead to prosperity. I call upon all stakeholders to urgently participate in organizing memorial prayers and constructing a mausoleum at his burial site so that those who have benefited from his contributions can visit and pay their respects.”
Professor Jethro Ariko Opolot was a distinguished scholar whose work revolutionized educational psychology in Uganda.
He served as Head of the Department of Psychology at Makerere University from 1976 to 1990 and later as Dean of the School of Education from 1988 to 1992.
He officially retired from Makerere University in 2005 but continued teaching as a part-time lecturer at Uganda Christian University well into his late 70s.
Born in Ngariam County, Katakwi District, Professor Opolot began his education at Acanga Primary School before advancing to Ngora High School and King’s College Budo.
His academic journey took him to prestigious international institutions, including the University of Edinburgh in 1958, where he earned a Master’s degree in Mathematics and Psychology.
He was a recipient of the Fulbright Senior Research Fellow award from Teachers’ College, Columbia University, a testament to his dedication to academia.
Additionally, he pursued further studies at the University of Birmingham, earning a Master’s in Educational Psychology in 1966, a Master of Science in Psychology in 1968, and a Ph.D. in Psychology in 1970.
His work and publications in reputable journals on psychology and education remain widely referenced.
One of Professor Opolot’s most notable contributions was the introduction of the Makerere University Mature Age Entry Examinations, an initiative that created an alternative pathway for students without A-level qualifications to access university education. This initiative continues to benefit thousands of Ugandans today.
On May 8, 2004, during an impromptu Iteso Cultural Union (ICU) cabinet meeting, he was appointed as the first Prime Minister of ICU.
This role was meant to foster unity and make the institution more relevant to the Iteso people.
Professor Ariko Opolot passed away on May 31, 2012, at 12:14 p.m. while being transported to Mulago Hospital after battling diabetes for several years.
His final resting place is in Odungura, Serere District, where he chose to be buried alongside his late brother, despite originally being from Ngariam County, Katakwi District.
The family insists that a mausoleum at his burial site would serve as a lasting tribute to his lifelong dedication to education and cultural leadership.
“It is difficult to discuss educational psychology in Uganda without mentioning Professor Jethro Ariko Opolot,” Okello stated.
“He deserves a permanent memorial in recognition of his invaluable contributions.”
The family believes that such a memorial would not only recognize Professor Ariko’s legacy but also inspire future generations of educators and scholars in Uganda.
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