Over 3,000 Young Patriots Take a Stand for Uganda’s Future
Over 3,000 young patriots from across Lira City have risen with purpose, stepping beyond the classroom to take a bold stand for Uganda’s future.
Gathered at Lango College playground, students from ten secondary schools completed a transformative five-day patriotism training, emerging not just as learners, but as leaders committed to protecting their country, championing environmental conservation, and inspiring their communities with a renewed sense of national pride
On the vibrant grounds of Lango College, the spirit of Uganda came alive as 3,358 students from ten secondary schools, St. Katherine, Lango College, Dara Christian High School, Lira Secondary School, King James, Lira Town College, Top Start, Light Vocational, Hill City, and Nexus Secondary School culminated a powerful five-day patriotism training.
This moment wasn’t defined by ceremony alone, it was a call to serve, to lead, and to shape a greener, more united Uganda.
Presided over by Lira City Resident Commissioner Lawrence Emmy Egole, representing the President, Egole emphasized that governments have been overthrown unlawfully in the past due to a lack of patriotism.
He was clear that patriotism is not about supporting a political party, but about nurturing a deep love for country and community. He called on students to take what they’ve learned and teach even their parents how to love and care for Uganda.
Egole praised the program’s impact on student behavior and school culture, and recommended extending the training from five to ten days to allow learners more time to absorb and internalize the values being taught. He noted that the course is not just about national pride, but about promoting discipline, respect, and responsibility among students.
Isaac Ocwo, Headteacher of Lira Secondary School and Chairperson of the Headteachers’ Association in Lira City, described the patriotism program as a game changer. He emphasized its role in promoting discipline, behavioral change, cooperation, and leadership among learners, and urged that the initiative be scaled up to reach every student.
With hearts full of pride and hands ready to serve, these young citizens have answered a new kind of call, not to war, but to peace. Not to destroy, but to build. Not to take, but to give back.
As the five-day training drew to a close at Lango College, it was clear that a new generation of patriots had risen, committed to defending not only Uganda’s sovereignty but its environment, its communities, and its future.
These students may have returned home with certificates, but more importantly, they carried a mission. A mission to serve. A mission to protect. A mission to love Uganda, not just in word, but indeed.
Emily Oyaro, a student from St. Katherine, explained how her school has empowered the patriotism club to carry out community outreach activities. They educate residents about the dangers of environmental degradation and distribute seedlings for tree planting, making their love for country visible in practical, impactful ways.
