In a significant move to instill a sense of national pride and civic responsibility among educators, Vice President Jessica Alupo inaugurated the Patriotism Development Course for Western Region head teachers at the National Leadership Institute (NALI) on Wednesday.
Organized by the National Secretariat for Patriotism Corps, the initiative aims to equip educators with tools to foster a deep sense of patriotism among their students.
The event, attended by head teachers from the Western Region, began with a warm welcome from Vice President Alupo, emphasizing the pivotal role of education in shaping the values of the younger generation. She underscored the importance of educators not only imparting academic knowledge but also instilling a profound love for Uganda.
“Education is not just about textbooks and exams. It is about molding responsible citizens who love their country and are committed to its progress”, said Alupo.
She has urged the educators to embrace their role as catalysts for positive change and emphasized the need for collaboration between schools and communities.
Further, the Vice President has expressed expressed optimism about the course’s impact on shaping the values of Uganda’s future leaders adding that the government remains committed to creating a patriotic and united nation, with education playing a pivotal role in achieving this vision..
On her part, the National Secretariat for Patriotism Corps, led by Commissioner Hellen Seku, in collaboration with the Ministry of Education and Sports, expressed commitment to expanding such initiatives nationwide.
The Asssistant Presidential Advisior on Youth Affairs Seku who occupied her office a few weeks ago in Kampala believes that instilling patriotism from a young age is crucial for building a united and prosperous nation.
Seku added that the Patriotism Development Course at NALI is part of a broader initiative by the Ugandan government to strengthen civic education and national pride.
Participants expressed enthusiasm for the course, acknowledging its relevance in shaping the character of future generations. Head teacher Juliet Muzoora the Head Teacher of Bweranyagi Girls School in Bushenyi district stated, “this program is about nurturing responsible and patriotic citizens who will positively contribute to the development of our nation.”
The Patriotism Development Course is a comprehensive program designed to provide headteachers with effective strategies for integrating patriotism into the school curriculum. Topics covered include Uganda’s history and cultural heritage, civic duties, and community engagement.
Throughout the course, participants will engage in interactive sessions, workshops, and discussions led by experts in patriotism education. The goal is to empower head teachers to create an environment fostering national pride and a commitment to community service.
The head teachers are expected to graduate on February 3, 2024, in a ceremony presided over by President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni.
