Ocer Acquires a New Bus
The early hours of Tuesday, October 20, witnessed the arrival of a much-anticipated 40-seater TATA bus at Ocer. At long last, Ocer has a new set of wheels!
Plans to acquire a bus have been in the works for over a year. Faced with the growing need to transport students to various destinations for different school activities, the administration approached parents through the Parent-Teacher Association (PTA), requesting their support through a reasonable increase in school fees. Understanding the need and sharing in the school's noble mission, the parents responded positively.
After exploring various options, the administration found a promising arrangement with Absa Bank Uganda Limited. Through its partnership with TATA Motors, the bank offers financing arrangements for institutions, particularly schools, seeking to acquire TATA buses. Following the necessary due diligence and completion of the required procedures, the long-awaited bus has finally arrived at Ocer!
Many thanks go to the parents for their willingness to shoulder this responsibility. Special appreciation also goes to the school administration for seeing the process through, as well as to the individuals, both within and outside the school, who worked tirelessly to ensure that the Ocer–Absa–TATA arrangement eventually bore fruits. Apwoyo matek!
In a remarkable twist, the bus's maiden trip was to Paimol, where it transported 40 members of staff on a pilgrimage to the site associated with Blessed Daudi Okello and Blessed Jildo Irwa, the Martyrs of Paimol. What a fitting way to begin its service!
The two Ugandan catechists were martyred in 1918 for their commitment to spreading the Christian faith in northern Uganda. Their courage and dedication continue to inspire the Church and the wider community, with their feast celebrated annually on October 20. This year's celebration coincided with the arrival of Ocer's new bus—a coincidence that could hardly have been more fitting!
With the new bus now in its fleet, the school hopes to ease the pressure on school transport and facilitate students' participation in the various activities that take them beyond the school gates. For Ocer, this is more than just the acquisition of a bus; it is another step towards making school life and activities run more smoothly.
May Bl. Daudi Okello and Bl. Jildo Irwa pray for us and for Ocer’s noble mission in this part of the world, where they, too, labored tirelessly, even unto death.
