By Haron Okwir
Otuke, Uganda | Otuke Deputy Resident District Commissioner (D/RDC) Francis Okwameri and Assistant RDC Isaac Opio Opeo have commended President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni for initiating the national patriotism programme, describing it as a key government effort in transforming the mindset of young people and shaping them into responsible citizens.
Speaking during the pass-out ceremony held on Wednesday, June 18, 2025, Okwameri emphasized that the patriotism initiative is grounded in the NRM government’s four core principles: Patriotism, Pan-Africanism, Socio-Economic Transformation, and Good Governance.
He noted that the programme is not just a political tool but a constitutional obligation that calls on every citizen to play a role in building the country.
He urged the learners and the wider public to embrace the programme and contribute to national development.
Assistant RDC Isaac Opio Opeo echoed Okwameri’s remarks, praising President Museveni as a man of peace who introduced the patriotism programme to instill discipline, unity, and national pride among the youth.
He stressed that the future of Uganda depends on young people who are ideologically prepared to protect and contribute to their country’s growth.
He encouraged the trainees to take their roles seriously and to apply what they had learned both in their schools and communities.
Opeo also addressed the ongoing industrial action by art teachers in the district.
He expressed concern over the impact of the strike on learners and called on teachers to return to classrooms.
He warned that continued disruption would affect the students’ academic progress and emphasized the need for educators to prioritize the learners while other avenues for resolution are explored.
Representing the Chief Administrative Officer, Patrick Onyek urged the student patriots to use the skills and values acquired during the training to bring about positive change in their communities.
He highlighted the importance of discipline, respect, and leadership among the youth.
District Patriotism Coordinator Edward Angol George assured all participants that they would receive certificates, including those who missed out in last year’s intake.
He pledged continued support for the initiative and praised the learners for their commitment.
A total of 1,835 students completed the training across three clusters.
The first cluster at Okwang Secondary School passed out 324 students – 227 from Okwang SS and 97 from Okwang Technical.
The second cluster at Adwari SS had 540 trainees, while the third and largest cluster at Orum SS passed out 971 students – 462 from Orum SS, 200 from Ogor SS, and 309 from Otuke SS.
The ceremony was attended by several district leaders and stakeholders including DEO Imat Lucy Acheng, Deputy DISO Franchise, Assistant RDC Jonathan Joe, and Okwang Town Council Mayor Dickens Erick Okello.
The patriotism programme continues to serve as a critical platform for preparing Uganda’s youth to become disciplined, informed, and development-oriented citizens.
