Government Urged to Promote Patriotism in Schools for a Stronger Nation
A call to promote patriotism in schools for young people to understand their civic responsibilities highlighting the positive impact of such training on students’ attitudes and emphasizes the importance of security measures within educational institutions.
The government has been urged to enhance the promotion of patriotism within educational institutions across the nation, with the aim of acquainting young individuals with their civic duties and responsibilities. This appeal was articulated on Wednesday 27th September 2023 by Mr. Lawrence Egole, the Resident City Commissioner of Lira, during a media address following the inauguration of a weeklong patriotism training program for students and staff in the region. The training took place at Uganda Technical College, Lira.
Mr. Egole emphasized that wherever patriotism training is conducted, it fosters a transformation in the students’ perspectives regarding national development and societal values. He underscored the potential consequences of neglecting the moral and civic education of the youth, warning that a lack of understanding of their roles and responsibilities towards their nation could lead to misguided behaviour and pose a threat to the country.
Mr. Egole noted that, post-COVID lockdown, the city had witnessed numerous student protests and demonstrations, primarily attributed to negative mindsets and animosity towards the administration. However, he expressed optimism that patriotism training in schools was having a positive impact, helping students regain their sense of responsibility and altering their attitudes.
Furthermore, Mr. Egole implored the trainees to cultivate a profound sense of nationalism and patriotism, as a failure to do so could result in damage to school property, which ultimately hampers the learning environment.
Regarding security measures, Mr. Egole disclosed that many schools in the city had embraced national surveillance guidelines by installing security cameras at strategic locations within their premises. He also confirmed the establishment of intelligence networks among students to monitor and report potential threats, ensuring a swift response from authorities in case of external dangers.
In conclusion, Mr. Magomu Mubaraka, the Deputy Commissioner of Patriotism at the Office of the President, outlined the objectives of the weeklong training program, emphasizing its focus on equipping staff and students with defensive skills for self-protection. The training will culminate in a graduation ceremony on Friday, expected to be attended by Ms. Rosemary Seninde, the Director of Mobilization at the National Resistance Movement party secretariat, and will see over 1,000 trainees completing the program.
