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Col. Emmy Katabazi, ISO’s Deputy Director General, urged student leaders to focus on education that promotes national development rather than ‘enslavement.’ He encouraged them to embrace a mindset of patriotism and discipline, avoid distractions like social media, and advocate for a productive future for Uganda.

The Deputy Director General of the Internal Security Organisation (ISO), Col. Emmy Katabazi, has urged student leaders to prioritize productive education and a shift in mindset, rather than pursuing an education that leads to ‘enslavement’.

Col. Katabazi emphasized the importance of adopting educational teachings that are relevant and enable students to contribute meaningfully to the country’s development, as opposed to those that perpetuate poverty. He noted that Uganda’s education system had been impacted by colonialism, a challenge the Government is actively addressing through the introduction of a new curriculum.

“Are we offering education for liberation or for enslavement? Do not simply pursue education that measures success in terms of marks, but rather use the knowledge gained to apply it practically,” Col. Katabazi remarked.

He made these comments during his keynote address to student leaders at the Female Student Leaders’ Conference, held in commemoration of the International Day of the Girl Child. The event, organized by the Uganda National Students Association (UNSA), took place at the Wakissha Resource Center in Wakiso District on October 12, 2024, under the theme: “Her Voice, Her Vision, Her Leadership Shared for a Better Tomorrow.”

The Importance of Historical Awareness

Col. Katabazi further advocated for a shift in mindset among student leaders, encouraging them to appreciate the unique dynamics of Uganda’s history. He reminded them that Uganda had endured colonialism and turbulent times, and this history should not be overlooked.

He called on the student leaders to promote patriotism and nation-building, cautioning them against distractions such as social media and activities that do not contribute to development, including engaging in riots. Instead, he urged them to focus on loving and working towards the progress of their country.

“We have a beautiful country that should not be taken for granted, and it is by divine will that we were born here,” he said.

Col. Katabazi also reminded the audience that UNSA was established by students who were inspired by their predecessors—those who played a key role in Uganda’s liberation and ushered in fundamental change.

“UNSA was formed after a careful study of the global landscape. Uganda’s history is unique, but not isolated,” he added.

He advised the students to avoid early pregnancies and marriages, stressing the importance of focusing on their education and embracing the principles of ‘PHD’—Prayer, Hard Work, and Discipline.

The conference was attended by student leaders from various schools including Kings College Budo, Kisubi High School, St. John’s Wakiso, Kololo High School, Marvel Secondary School, as well as coordinators from different districts.