NAPAK – The State Minister for Karamoja Affairs, Hon. Nambozo Florence Wamala, has called for the introduction of robust patriotism programs for the youth in the Karamoja sub-region. She made this call during a graduation ceremony for over 600 students who completed a two-week patriotism training at Kangole Primary Girls School playground in Napak district.
“Patriotism should be taught from early childhood to promote citizens’ love for their country, unity, and to defend it at all times,” Minister Nambozo emphasized during her address. The students who graduated came from various schools, including Kangole Girls Secondary School, St. Daniel Comboni Secondary School, Napak Seed Secondary School, St. Andrew Secondary School Lotome, and Moroto Technical Institute.
Minister Nambozo stressed the importance of instilling patriotism from a young age. She noted that the Karamoja sub-region has significant potential and a unique heritage that should be showcased to the world, demonstrating the region’s transformative progress. She also urged parents to prioritize their children’s education and protect girls from early marriages.
| Key Points | Details |
|---|---|
| Participants | 600+ students from various schools in Karamoja |
| Location | Kangole Primary Girls School playground, Napak district |
| Training Topics | Political education, leadership skills, values of patriotism |
| Goals | Promote love for country, unity, prevent criminality, enhance peace |
| Notable Attendees | 3 Division Officers, Mr. Wachara John Bosco, Napak District Patriotism Officer |
The Minister called on leaders to maintain close ties with their constituents to prevent youths from being lured into criminal activities and to promote peace initiatives and coexistence. She pledged to work closely with local leadership structures and security agencies to curb criminality and expedite the implementation of government programs.
The Resident District Commissioner (RDC) for Napak, Mr. Okori Denis, also highlighted the importance of the patriotism program. He stated that the program aims to equip students with core values to serve their motherland and become transparent, committed, and self-driven human resources for national development.
Mr. Okori commended the joint security forces, led by Maj Gen Don William Nabasa, for their continued support and contribution to the patriotism programs. He congratulated the students on their resilience and commitment throughout the training period.
Principals and head teachers of participating schools noted that continued patriotism programs enhance students’ understanding of political ideology and leadership skills, fostering a positive mindset change. The students underwent training in basic concepts of political education, values of political education and management, and allies and adversaries of Uganda, among other topics.
The graduation ceremony was attended by various dignitaries, including 3 Division Officers, Mr. Wachara John Bosco (Napak District Patriotism Officer), principals and head teachers of participating institutions, and senior officers from security agencies.
