A total of 1,614 students of Kawempe Muslim Secondary School have successfully completed patriotism training conducted by the National Secretariat for Patriotism Corps (NSPC), with leaders urging them to become disciplined and responsible citizens committed to Uganda’s development.
Speaking during the pass-out ceremony, NSPC Commissioner Hellen Seku challenged the students to apply the knowledge, values, and skills acquired during the training. She emphasized that academic excellence and success in life require hard work, discipline, and ideological clarity.
Seku encouraged learners to embrace the principle of “Better Education, Less Labor (BELL),” noting that meaningful achievements are earned through commitment, diligence, and determination.
“The future belongs to those who are disciplined, hardworking, and focused. Use the knowledge gained through this training to overcome challenges and contribute positively to society,” she said.
She further urged young people to take advantage of government empowerment programs, stressing that the current era demands productivity, innovation, and participation in income-generating activities.
Seku reminded students that patriotism is a constitutional obligation for every Ugandan, urging them to remain loyal to their country, make sacrifices for national development, and actively contribute to Uganda’s progress.
She also encouraged learners to be God-fearing, noting that the fear of God forms the foundation of wisdom and good character. According to her, patriotic citizens reject corruption and uphold integrity in public service and personal life.
Addressing female students, Seku encouraged them to remain focused on their education and strive for excellence, including in science-related subjects.
“Women are increasingly taking leadership positions in education, government, and other sectors. Girls should believe in themselves and know they can achieve anything through hard work and dedication,” she said.
She also cautioned students against early sexual relationships, warning that they may lead to HIV infection, unwanted pregnancies, and other challenges that could disrupt their education.
Seku further urged learners to reject corruption in all its forms, including examination malpractice, bribery, and dishonesty, noting that integrity is essential for national development.
“Corruption remains one of the biggest obstacles to national development. Integrity must begin with each individual if Uganda is to become prosperous and transformed,” she said.
She encouraged young people to utilize opportunities within Uganda by applying their skills and talents locally instead of seeking opportunities abroad.
Kawempe Muslim Secondary School Head Teacher, Zulaika Kibirige, pledged that the school would continue promoting the values instilled during the patriotism training.
She said the institution would continue fostering discipline, integrity, respect for the Constitution, national symbols, and public institutions, as well as promoting unity, tolerance, peaceful coexistence, community service, and responsible citizenship.
“We commit ourselves to nurturing future leaders who place Uganda’s interests above personal gain and who contribute positively to national development,” she said.
Speaking on behalf of the trainees, Senior Five student Sharifah Matovu highlighted the benefits of the program, describing patriotism as a commitment demonstrated through action, discipline, and hard work.
She said the training equipped students with skills in discipline, time management, self-defense, teamwork, cooperation, and positive lifestyle choices.
Matovu added that self-awareness sessions had strengthened learners’ mental resilience, helping them manage challenges and prevent mental health issues such as depression.
She also noted that the program had enhanced leadership skills among students, citing student leader Amira Lukwago, who served as chief parade commander.
The ceremony was also attended by musician Alien Skin, who urged students to avoid drug abuse and remain focused on their education and future ambitions.
“Dear students, stay away from drugs. Where I may have fallen short, I encourage young artists to continue pursuing their dreams and charting their own path,” he said.
The colorful ceremony featured drills, parades, and demonstrations showcasing the discipline, confidence, and leadership skills acquired during the training.
The pass-out marked another milestone in government efforts to promote patriotism, national consciousness, and responsible citizenship among Uganda’s youth.
