By Haron Okwir
Dokolo, Uganda – Educational stakeholders in Dokolo District on Thursday, April 10, 2025, convened in the Council Hall for a key meeting with officials from the National Secretariat for Patriotism Corps Uganda to discuss the promotion and implementation of patriotism activities in schools.
Leading the delegation was Mr. Ian Gumisiriza Jeremiah, the Principal Communication Officer at the Secretariat, who emphasized the urgent need for schools to uphold national values through visible and consistent patriotism practices.
He decried the poor display of national pride in some schools, citing findings from their inspection that revealed some institutions neither hoist the Ugandan flag nor treat it with the respect it deserves.
“In some schools, we found the flag placed casually on desks instead of being properly raised on a flagpole,” he noted.
Gumisiriza also expressed concern over the improper singing of the National Anthem. He said many schools neglect to sing the anthem in Kiswahili as required, and others completely omit the third stanza.
He urged teachers to take deliberate action in training students to sing the anthem correctly in both English and Kiswahili, and to ensure that all three stanzas are included.
In addition, he pledged to follow up on unfulfilled presidential pledges made to some schools in Dokolo District during past visits, acknowledging the importance of addressing these longstanding gaps.
Deputy RDC of Dokolo, Mr. Ismael Masaba, called on school leaders to take patriotism seriously as a tool for nurturing responsible citizens.
“Patriotism plays a vital role in grooming professionals who deeply love and understand their country. It helps prepare them to defend the nation when the need arises,” he said.
He further applauded the leadership of H.E. President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni for prioritizing national development and promoting patriotism in schools.
The Vice Chairperson LCV, Mr. Odongo Tonny Ocen, emphasized the potential of the program to combat corruption.
“If one truly loves their country, they will not engage in acts that destroy it, like corruption. Patriotism instills integrity and selflessness,” he stated.
Speaking on behalf of the District Education Officer, the District Sports Officer Mr. Ojungo Godfrey urged everyone to embrace the initiative.
“This is a good cause. Let us all come together, work as a team, and support it to ensure it flourishes in every school,” he said.
Rev. Sam Omiat, Chairperson of private schools in Dokolo and director of Adwoki Schools, appealed for motivation and support to school patriotism patrons.
“We need to revive this initiative and ensure those handling patriotism at school and district levels are well-trained, supported, and empowered to spread the message effectively,” he said.
The meeting concluded with a collective commitment from stakeholders to actively promote patriotism and national pride in schools across Dokolo District.