BUKEDEA, Uganda — Bukedea County MP Hon. David Beecham Okwere has urged Senior Four and Senior Six candidates to work hard and excel in the forthcoming national examinations.
“Let your light shine before men so that the whole world will see,” Okwere told candidates, quoting the Bible as he encouraged them to remain focused, disciplined and determined.
Okwere was the Guest of Honour at a blessing ceremony for candidates of Bukedea Comprehensive School (BCS), Kongunga High School and other schools held at Bukedea Sports Arena Stadium.
The colourful event attracted a large crowd of students, parents, teachers, religious leaders and invited guests.
He encouraged the candidates to take their studies seriously as they prepare for the Uganda Certificate of Education (UCE) and Uganda Advanced Certificate of Education (UACE) examinations, reminding them that academic success inspires others and opens doors to future opportunities.
The legislator thanked parents for their commitment to their children’s education over the years.
He applauded them for paying school fees, encouraging their children to stay in school and choosing institutions such as Bukedea Comprehensive School and Kongunga High School.
Okwere also appreciated parents for supporting teachers in guiding students, noting the importance of cooperation between families and schools in shaping learners’ success.
He further thanked teachers of BCS and Kongunga High School for their dedication and hard work in providing quality education and a conducive environment for students to excel.
The Bishop of Soroti Catholic Diocese, Rt. Rev. Dr. Joseph Eciru Oliach, who presided over the ceremony alongside other clergy, urged candidates to pursue education not merely for academic qualifications but as preparation for life.
“Do not study for school, but for life. Keep the standards high; do not go for less,” Bishop Eciru advised.
He cautioned students against sidelining God in their quest for knowledge, emphasising the need to combine education with faith, wisdom and good character.
“Never sideline God. Never grow into a clever devil, because education and knowledge without God are worthless,” he told candidates.
Okwere reaffirmed his earlier pledge, made during the prom party for Bukedea Comprehensive School, to award Shs2 million in pocket money to the best-performing student.
The pledge was reiterated as further encouragement for candidates to remain committed to their studies.
The ceremony brought together students, parents, teachers and religious leaders to pray for candidates and reinforce the importance of academic excellence, discipline, faith and responsible living.
Asio Rose, the Resident Director of Bukedea Comprehensive Schools, expressed gratitude to the bishop, his clergy, invited guests, parents and well-wishers for gracing the day.
Asio said that if the function had been attended by only teachers and candidates, it would not have attracted the colourful turnout witnessed.
Mr. Enoch Nadabga, the headteacher, said the candidates were fully prepared for the examinations and that the only thing left was the dedication ceremony, whose objectives had been achieved.
