By Leonard Kamugisha Akida and Patricia Turyahebwa,
ENTEBBE
The National Secretariat for Patriotism Corps (NSPC) has launched a two-week intensive training program for university student leaders across Uganda.
The program was officially opened today at Nkumba University , main campus Entebbe in Wakiso district.
Speaking at the launch of the training, Hellen Seku, NSPC Commissioner said the initiative aims to equip participants with the skills, knowledge, and values needed to become informed, engaged, and patriotic leaders capable of driving positive change in the nation.
“We are honored to launch this two-week University Leaders’ Patriotism and Ideological Training at Nkumba University. As NSPC, we are committed to empowering student leaders with the essential tools to inspire meaningful change and uphold national values,” Commissioner Seku remarked.
She observed that the training focuses on enhancing leadership abilities, fostering national pride, and exploring diverse ideological perspectives.
Participants will also have the opportunity to network and collaborate with peers and other like-minded individuals. The training curriculum includes sessions on patriotism, national values, leadership development, and an exploration of Uganda’s ideological landscape.
Upon completion, participants are expected to emerge with enhanced leadership skills, a broader understanding of patriotism and national values, increased confidence, and a robust network of fellow student leaders.
“This initiative is designed to shape the next generation of leaders who are not only knowledgeable but also deeply committed to their nation’s growth and unity,” added Seku.
The Commandant of the Oliver Reginald Tambo Leadership Institute, Col. Justus Rukundo urged participants to observe discipline and hard work in their lives if they are to become successful people in future. He said that there will be instructors and other personnel who will be working with the participants throughout the training to assess their trainability.
Entebbe Municipality District Police Commander, SSP Steven Twinomugisha cautioned the participants against potential security threats and urged them to maintain law and order during the training. He said the police are on alert to provide safety and security to every participant in case of any disruptions.
Participants Reaction
Abias Musiime, President Makerere University Patriotism chapter said he will use the skills obtained in the training to inspire and motivate others.
“Know, I am going to enhance and develop my leadership skills, to inspire and motivate others, cultivate self-discipline and responsibility as well as understanding, internalising patriotic values,” said Musiime.
Another participant, Viva Kasingye, expressed her enthusiasm for the training, stating that she aims to utilize the knowledge gained to deepen her understanding of Uganda’s constitution and the principles of constitutionalism.
“I want to learn about my country’s history and culture,heritage, and enhance my Constitutional knowledge, Familiarize myself with national policies,” she said.
On the other hand, Rinah Asiimwe, a students’ leader from Makerere University Business School (MUBS) Nakawa said she is going to use the knowledge from the training to mentor her peers and the students she serves at a university. She hopes this is one of the ways she can significantly contribute to national growth and development.
Over 800 student leaders from various universities and tertiary institutions are undergoing this training which is slated to close on January 17. The Patron of national Patriotism clubs, His Excellency Yoweri Kaguta Museveni is expected to preside over the ceremony to pass out the trainees. The president will be accompanied by the First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, Mama Janet Kataha Museveni.
