Apac, Uganda – The spirit of patriotism soared high on Monday, 31st March 2025, as 2,474 young patriots successfully graduated at Apac Booma Grounds after completing an intensive 12 days training program at their different learning institutions.
The grand pass-out ceremony, attended by top district officials, security personnels, school leaders, and proud parents, marked a new milestone in Uganda’s youth empowerment initiatives.
Hon. Imat Betty Engola, Apac District Woman MP, officiated as the Guest of Honour, commending the trainees for their discipline and resilience throughout the rigorous program.
She emphasized that Uganda’s future depends on a well-trained, patriotic, and morally upright youth, urging them to uphold the values instilled during their training.
The event was graced by a host of dignitaries, including RDC Apac Andrew Onyuk, Deputy RDC Joan Apio, Assistant RDCs Florence Acuma & Jonal Okot, DISO Apac, DPC Apac, and OC Prisons Apac.
Also present were the headteachers and principals of the participating schools, parents, patrons, and officials from the Regional Patriotism Clubs of Lango Subregion.
The students who participated in the training hailed from various secondary schools and institutions, including:
1. Cegere Secondary School
2. Apac Senior Secondary School
3. Maruzi Seed Secondary School
4. Apac Seed Secondary School
5. Aroca Seed Secondary School
6. Akokoro Secondary School
7. Ibuje Secondary School
8. St. Francesca Secondary School
9. St. Albert Technical School
10. Apac Technical School
Over the course of their training, the young patriots underwent rigorous instruction in key national development areas, including:
● Crime intelligence and community policing to enhance security awareness.
● Uganda’s geography to deepen their understanding of the country’s structure.
● HIV/AIDS awareness and health education for personal and community well-being.
● Introduction to patriotism to foster national pride and service.
● Roles of youth in socio-economic transformation to prepare them for future leadership.
● Skills at arms and weapon handling to instill discipline and self-defense capabilities.
The training was conducted by 16 UPDF officers under the leadership of Maj. Aban, on the directive of UPDF Infantry Fifth Division Commander, Brig. Gen. Keith Katungi.
The officers were distributed among the different schools, with each institution receiving two to four trainers depending on the number of students.
Most of the participants were from Senior One (S.1), Senior Two (S.2), and Senior Five (S.5), signalling a commitment to molding young learners into responsible citizens early in their education.
Assistant RDC Jonal Okot, in an interview with Dokolo Post reporter, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to nurturing patriotism, discipline, and national service.
He applauded President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni for his continued support of patriotism programs and thanked the Office of the RDC and the school leadership for their vital role in facilitating the training.
“I thank the President, the Office of the RDC Apac, and all school administrators for bringing the students for training. This is a crucial step in securing Uganda’s future,” said Okot.
He also extended special appreciation to Gen. Katunji and Maj. Aban for providing the dedicated UPDF trainers who ensured the success of the program.
The event symbolized a strong foundation for a disciplined and nationalistic youth ready to contribute to Uganda’s security, development, and unity.