By Caroline Nakire
Students of Kitende Secondary School have been challenged to embrace discipline, integrity, resilience and patriotism as they prepare to take on responsibilities in society.
The call was made by Director of Human Resource Management at the Special Forces Command (SFC), Hon. Col. Night Ikiriza, during a lecture on patriotism and mindset change at the school.
Col. Ikiriza, who represented the SFC Commander, Maj Gen. Asaph Mweteise Nyakikuru, told the students that patriotism should begin with individual character and responsible conduct rather than being limited to national symbols and expressions of national pride.
“True patriotism begins with self-love, self-respect and personal discipline,” Col. Ikiriza said.
She encouraged the students to take responsibility for their actions, develop self-discipline and cultivate initiative in both their academic and personal lives. She urged them to become proactive in addressing challenges rather than always waiting for others to direct them.
Col. Ikiriza also reminded the students of Uganda’s difficult past and encouraged them to appreciate the peace and stability the country enjoys. She said young people have a responsibility to protect these gains and contribute to building a better future.
She cautioned the learners against tribalism, religious discrimination and other forms of segregation, emphasising that national unity depends on respect for people regardless of their background.
“What is important is the person,” she said.
The SFC senior officer further encouraged the students to understand and participate in government development programmes while embracing East African integration and Pan-Africanism.
She noted that Africa’s development requires young people who are willing to work together, appreciate their shared interests and contribute to addressing challenges affecting their communities and the continent as a whole.
Col. Ikiriza also warned the students against behaviours that could undermine their education, character and future prospects. She identified corruption, theft, negative peer influence, pornography and irresponsible use of social media among the practices that young people should avoid.
She urged the students to use social media responsibly and to be mindful of the people, content and ideas that influence their decisions. She also encouraged them to remain focused on their education and develop the resilience needed to overcome challenges.
Rather than allowing temporary setbacks to discourage them, she asked the learners to learn from difficulties, remain determined and continue working towards their goals.
“Someone with determination, a hard worker and a resilient person can never fail to succeed,” she said.
Col. Ikiriza also encouraged the students to appreciate the efforts of their parents and guardians in supporting their education. She cautioned them against unhealthy comparisons with others, urging them to focus on developing their own abilities and making the most of the opportunities available to them.
“What your father failed to do, you will accomplish,” she challenged them.
She further stressed that academic success should be accompanied by integrity and strong personal values. She noted that Uganda needs citizens who can uphold their principles and make responsible decisions even when faced with pressure, temptation or difficult circumstances.
She urged the learners to use their time at school to build not only their academic abilities but also the character, confidence and discipline required to succeed in life.