By Darius Andrew Wabushenda
Over 300 Students Pass Out in Patriotism Training at St. Mary’s College Mayenze
Manafwa District – Over 3,000 students have successfully completed a one-week Patriotism training at St. Mary’s College Mayenze, in a ceremony presided over by Lukke Kagenyi, the Deputy Resident District Commissioner for Manafwa District.
Speaking as the chief guest, Kagenyi called upon the students to love their country, respect their elders, and maintain discipline in order to succeed in life.
He revealed that since the Patriotism program was introduced in Uganda in 2009, there has been a noticeable reduction in strikes among schools, attributing the change to the values instilled through the training.
Kagenyi also advised the youth to abstain from early sexual activity, reminding them that HIV/AIDS still exists in the country. He urged them to focus on building a healthy, responsible future.
Rachel Nambuya, the District Education Officer for Manafwa, applauded the students for actively participating in the training. She encouraged them to maintain healthy relationships, noting that today’s youth are tomorrow’s parents, who will be responsible for raising strong, morally upright families that contribute to society’s well-being.
Nambuya also appealed to the government to extend Patriotism training to teachers, emphasizing their role in reinforcing the values taught to students.
Paul Charles Nabungara Museme, Headteacher of St. Mary’s College Mayenze, described the Patriotism program as an important initiative in schools. He said it has helped reduce the influence of student unrest and strikes, as it instills national values and promotes peace among learners.
“When we continue having Patriotism in schools, it will protect the nation and benefit the institutions that promote it,” Nabugara emphasized.
Students who underwent the training shared their experiences and the skills they gained. Prisca Nambozo, one of the participants, said she has been nurtured mentally, morally, and physically.
Another student, Gerald Walyakhula, said the training equipped him with techniques to handle challenges in life and skills that will empower his future.
Derick Matanda, also a participant, noted that the training has transformed his mindset. “After the Patriotism training, I can’t imagine participating in a school riot,” he said.
The Patriotism Clubs initiative was officially launched in 2009 by President Yoweri Museveni. It was established in secondary schools to promote the “six loves”: love for country, East Africa, Africa, the environm
ent, self, and humanity.
