“As a student leader at your level, what is your role in fighting corruption, together we can end this war called corruption in our country,” said Gen. Isoke.
By Patricia Turyahebwa,
ENTEBBE
The Head of State House Anti-Corruption Unit, Brig. Gen. Henry Isoke has advised student leaders to be agents of change in combating corruption if they are to contribute to the national development of Uganda.
He highlighted that corruption affects equitable distribution of resources across the population, increasing income inequalities, undermining the effectiveness of social welfare programs and ultimately resulting in lower levels of human development which in turn, may undermine long-term sustainable development, economic growth and equality.
“As a student leader at your level, what is your role in fighting corruption, together we can end this war called corruption in our country,” said Gen. Isoke.
“You and me, how we position ourselves in fighting corruption has a big contribution to the overall efforts but most importantly, it is a duty of every citizen according to article 17(1)(i) constitution of Uganda. It is therefore a duty of us all to combat corruption and misuse or wastage of public property,” he added.
Isoke made the remarks while delivering a lecture of opportunity to student leaders of all Higher Institutions of learning from across the country who are currently participating in the ongoing patriotism and ideological training program at Nkumba University, Entebbe.
In his presentation to the participants, he observed that the cost of corruption is enormous; among others, it leads to brain drain as human resources are lost to other countries on account of better terms of service.
“Corruption severely undermines national development by distorting resource allocation, reducing foreign investment, and increasing income inequality. Other consequences include compromised infrastructure, poor healthcare, and environmental degradation.” he added
He further reminded them that the government has enacted comprehensive legal and institutional frameworks, including the Anti-Corruption Act and Whistleblowers Protection Act, alongside technological solutions like e-government procurement. Institutions including IGG, PPDA, DPP, SH-ACU, and the Anti-Corruption Court, among others, were established and mandated to combat corruption in the country.
“To enhance our country’s national development, there is a need to ensure the vice of corruption, which is a key obstacle, is defeated. The NRM government, under the visionary leadership of H.E the President, has put in place legislations and institutions to combat corruption. The masses are being mobilized through various efforts, including promoting patriotism through programs like this one.”He stated
He added that the laws are not the problem; they are sufficient to address the vice; all we need is to utilize these frameworks to decisively defeat corruption in the country urging the public to always see something and say something in order to win the war against corruption and propel Uganda’s socio-economic transformation.
In their contribution, the students observed the need to sensitize the masses and enforcement officers we encourage every citizen to always.
“From my own understanding, corruption is being done by Ugandans who are not patriotic in their hearts, and there is a need to preach the gospel of patriotism to some category of leaders so that they serve with love and passion of their country,”
“Others are ignorant about the impact of corruption to the nation, therefore the Unit should go to the grassroot to inculcate the public on the dangers of corruption and other unpatriotic methods of work.”Ivan Mwebesa a student leader at MTAC said
Isoke observed that despite the prevalence of corruption, Uganda has made notable progress, including improved GDP growth (6% in FY 2023/24), increased life expectancy (68.2 years), and elevation of the country to lower middle-income status.
He commended the Commissioner, National Secretariat for Patriotism Corps (NSPC), and her team for their effort in promoting patriotism among the youth, and also for inviting him to participate and share his experience with the student leaders.
“We commend the effort of the NSPC and Commissioner Hellen Seku for the contribution in this effort and also inviting me to participate and share my experience with the university student leaders,”
“I also want to thank all the student leaders who have willingly participated in this training. I encourage you to continue taking part in such patriotic programmes, to strengthen your moral and ethical values.” he emphasized.
The training is organized by NSPC with Seku at its helm, commenced on January 3, 2025, aims to equip student leaders with the necessary skills and knowledge to become informed and patriotic leaders.
It is part of the National Students Patriotism Club’s (NSPC) efforts to promote patriotism and national unity within the country.
The training emphasizes the importance of civic responsibility and encourages young leaders to actively participate in building a better future for Uganda.
President Museveni and First Lady and Minister of Education Janet Museveni will officially close the training on January 17.
