By Patricia Turyahebwa,
KAMPALA
Students of Mulago School of Nursing and Midwifery implored the government to establish the patriotism program as an annual event in all institutions of learning.
They firmly believe that by making the program a yearly occurrence, will greatly benefit first-year students, providing them with a solid foundation in patriotism as they embark on their academic journey; setting them up for success.
“We request the National Secretariat for Patriotism Corps to turn the program into an annual event to benefit the first-year students the more,”
“But also, the training period should at least be extended from one week to two weeks because the facilitators find themselves teaching a whole concept in a period of like three hours but once they extend the training schedule, we will be able to learn more and more from these facilitators.”
“We also suggest that the program should be extended to primary schools in order to provide students with a foundational understanding of patriotism before entering higher education.”
They made the call in their memorandum read to Brig.General Justus Rukundo who was the Chief guest representing NSPC Commissioner Hellen Seku as well as the school administration during a pass out event which was held on Friday in Kampala following a one week long of patriotism and Ideological training course which was conducted by (NSPC) State House.
The graduating cohort consisted of 66 male and 159 female bringing the total to 225 patriots.
On his part, Brig. General Justus Rukundo, urged the patriots to serve diligently with passion and love once they cross to the world of work.
“Now that you have embarked on this patriotism journey, ensure you shine your light for everyone to see,” said Rukundo.
“He also emphasized the importance of physical health, encouraging students to prioritize proper nutrition, regular exercise, and medical check-ups.”
According to the School’s Principal, Dr. Eve Nampiima Kakonge, the training equipped students with values beyond self-interest.
“Our students have undergone comprehensive training; they acquired an extra layer of value that benefits both themselves and our institution. This training will enable them to become responsible students focused on their academics, ultimately making a positive impact in their future careers.” noted Nampiima
Gerald Musisi, the President Patriotism Club at Mulago School of Nursing and Midwifery, commended NSPC for organizing such an important training.
“We have learnt a lot and I have a strong belief that none of my members remained the same because we were taught on how things happen in reality not like we have always assumed things to be.”
“Personally, I had a different perspective towards the program, I was thinking that it’s more of President Museveni and NRM things but I found when things are totally different and now the course changed my way of thinking and I want to thank NSPC Commissioner Seku for accepting our request.” Musisi said
The National Secretariat for Patriotism Corps was established by President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni in 2009 to instill patriotism to all students and youth of Uganda.
The ultimate goal of this program is to produce a new breed of enlightened citizens who are committed and devoted to the National cause willing to sacrifice for the country.
