news 15 August 2026 Nile Post
Tayebwa: Dan Odongo's Career is a Blueprint for Public Service
Deputy Speaker of Parliament Thomas Tayebwa has lauded UNEB Executive Director Dan Odongo, stating his career trajectory and tenure at the examination body serve as an inspiring model for public servants across Uganda. Tayebwa highlighted Odongo's book launch as a moment to reflect on diligent service. Source: https://nilepost.co.ug/news/363694/tayebwa-says-uneb-chief-dan-odongos-career-is-a-lesson-in-public-service
Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Thomas Tayebwa, has commended Dan Odongo, the Executive Director of the Uganda National Examinations Board (UNEB), for his exemplary public service. Tayebwa suggested that Odongo’s career path offers a valuable lesson for public officials nationwide.
Speaking at the launch of Odongo’s autobiography, “From Humble Beginnings: The Journey of a Teacher Who Rose to Lead a Nation’s Trust,” Tayebwa emphasized that a lack of parliamentary scrutiny during Odongo’s leadership at UNEB signifies successful and accountable stewardship.
“When you are in a public office and you never see Parliament quarreling with you or knocking on your door, you consider yourself a successful and diligent performer,” Tayebwa remarked at the event held at Hotel Africana in Kampala.
Tayebwa further posited that true leadership is defined by commitment and actions rather than mere titles. He stated, “Leadership is not about titles; it is about service, honesty, and commitment to the people one leads. A title may open the door, but only one’s actions earn lasting respect.”
He also drew attention to Odongo’s background as a teacher, highlighting how his progression from the classroom to leading UNEB demonstrates the significant role educators can play in national development. “To every teacher present and educators across Uganda, the story of Dan affirms that the classroom is not a place of limitation, but a powerful launching pad for national service.”
Odongo, who has led UNEB since 2016, authored the book to chronicle his journey from a rural upbringing in Ofiru village to heading the national examinations body. He expressed that the book aims to share lessons learned along the way.
The book details Odongo’s childhood, education, teaching career, and his rise through the ranks at UNEB since joining in 1989. His tenure has spanned over three decades, encompassing substantial transformations in Uganda’s examination system.
This story was originally reported by Nile Post.