A 14-year-old pupil from Dokolo District has earned a place on Uganda’s national athletics team after emerging as one of the country’s top young talents.
Omee Chrispus, a Primary Seven pupil at Ilong Primary School in Kangai Town Council, will represent Uganda at the 23rd Federation of East Africa Secondary Schools Sports Association (FEASSSA) Games due to be held in Morogoro, Tanzania, from August 12 to 23.
Omee secured his place on the national team following an impressive performance at the National Kids’ Athletics and Special Needs Education (SNE) Championship held in Tororo from May 4 to 12.
He is the only athlete from Dokolo District selected for the competition and will join two other athletes from secondary schools in the Lango Sub-region on the Ugandan team.
His selection has been welcomed by education and sports officials in Dokolo, who say the achievement demonstrates the potential of young athletes when provided with opportunities and support.
Speaking during a send-off ceremony, Omee’s mother, Ms Vicky Akello, described her son’s selection as a source of pride for the family and thanked those who supported his journey.
Ms Akello, a widow, said she would continue praying for her son’s success and protection as he prepares to compete at the regional event.
The headteacher of Ilong Primary School, Mr John Bosco Okullo, urged parents, teachers and community leaders to identify and nurture children’s talents, saying sports and other co-curricular activities can create opportunities for young people.
He cited the career of Otuke East MP Julius Achon Bua, a former international athlete, as an example of how sports can transform lives.
Mr Okullo called for increased support towards school sports programmes to help learners realise their potential.
Dokolo District Sports Officer Mr Godfrey Ojungo described Omee as a disciplined, respectful and hardworking athlete whose progress he has followed for the past two years.
Mr Ojungo said the young athlete’s success reflects the impact of continued investment in sports development by the district local government, particularly through the education department.
He encouraged Omee to remain focused, maintain discipline and prioritise his health as he prepares to compete against some of the best young athletes in the region.
Meanwhile, the District Education Officer, Mr Patrick Okai, said Omee’s achievement was a significant milestone for Dokolo, noting that the district has many talented learners who need support to excel.
Mr Okai commended sports teachers for their role in identifying and developing talent, saying exposure to regional competitions gives learners confidence and creates pathways for future opportunities.
He urged gifted learners to embrace their abilities and assured them of continued support from the district.
Omee’s selection comes at a time when schools in the region are increasingly using sports as a platform to promote discipline, teamwork and career opportunities among learners.