Otuke, Uganda | Students at Adwari Secondary School have been encouraged to work hard and focus on their education to become independent, even as they consider marriage in the future. They were advised to prioritize earning their own income, as financial independence can earn respect and foster stability in relationships.
The advice came from Chief Guest Susan Abeja, Otuke District Woman Member of Parliament, when she addressed the students during the International Women’s Day celebrations held on Sunday at the school’s premises. She highlighted the theme of this year’s celebrations and urged the school to ensure justice for all students, stressing that justice is not only found in courts but also in homes, schools, and workplaces.
Abeja encouraged girls to be God-fearing, respectful to everyone regardless of their social status, and to cultivate creativity as a way of overcoming financial challenges. She noted that women who have their own income are more likely to earn respect from men, while those without may face neglect or disrespect in relationships. She also called on boys to work hard and be financially responsible to ensure a stable family life in the future.
Reflecting on her own journey, Abeja credited her achievements to discipline and commitment to her community, church, and people around her. She also advised teachers to treat students as valuable human capital while warning the students to avoid behaviours such as early courtship and alcohol consumption, which could interfere with their future prospects.
Accompanying Abeja, Acio Santa, Senior Woman Teacher at Adwari Secondary, said the students are already on the right path by pursuing careers that would help them become productive and respectable citizens.
Meanwhile, Sam Engola, a teacher and staff representative to the school’s Board of Governors (BOG), emphasized that the board works to safeguard the welfare of staff and students, ensuring discipline, good health, and academic progress in line with the Ministry of Education and Sports.
International Women’s Day 2026, celebrated globally on March 8, was marked as a call to action for gender equality and recognition of women’s social, economic, cultural, and political achievements.
Leading organizations promoted themes including support and reciprocity, dismantling systemic barriers, empowerment, and sustainability.
Globally, activists continued to advocate for closing the 23% gender pay gap and increasing women’s representation in parliaments, currently at 24%.
