Elly Jabeth Ojilong, one of Uganda’s most promising young referees, continues to impress both on the field and in the classroom.
In March 2025, at just 17 years old, Ojilong made history as the youngest referee to officiate in the Uganda Premier League, serving as fourth official during BUL’s 1-0 win over Kitara.
On Sunday, he took centre stage as the main referee in a FUFA Big League match between Soltilo Bright Stars and Kiyinda Boys at Maroons Grounds, Luzira, where Kiyinda Boys emerged victorious. The appointment marked another milestone in Ojilong’s rising refereeing career.
The achievement comes alongside academic success. The former Amus College School student scored 17 points in Biology, Chemistry, and Mathematics in the 2025 UACE results released last Friday.
His results included an A in Mathematics, a B in Chemistry, a C in Biology, a D1 in ICT, and a C5 in General Paper.
“I did not expect a C in Biology. I expected better, but I will take it. I give glory to God for the opportunity to pass. I am happy for everyone who has been part of my academic journey,” Ojilong said.
Balancing football officiating with studies was a deliberate choice. As exams approached, he requested to scale back his appointments to focus on academics, a request FUFA granted.
“I officiated in the national secondary schools games, but in third term I wrote to FUFA requesting the appointments desk to allow me concentrate on my exams. I am grateful the permission was granted,” he noted.
Ojilong plans to pursue a career in medicine. “Since childhood, I have worked hard to ensure I join university and become a doctor. I aim to study medicine and surgery,” he said.
His academic journey has been marked by consistency, from a PLE aggregate of 9, to 20 at UCE, earning him a bursary at Amus College School where he completed his UACE.
On the refereeing front, Ojilong has officiated in national and international secondary school competitions, as well as regional and continental tournaments, and continues to feature in national league matches.
He attributes his success to the guidance of his parents, Ngora High School, and the leadership at Amus College School.
