Rise Above Your Roots, Orombi Tells Northern Learners as IGG Unveils Integrity Clubs

19 April 2026, 5:52 pm

By Golden Vicky Ayiro

Former Archbishop of the Church of Uganda, Henry Luke Orombi, has challenged students in Northern Uganda to reject limiting labels and pursue success with determination, as the Inspectorate of Government rolled out integrity clubs in schools to nurture a corruption-free generation.

Speaking at Kworo High School in Pader District on Saturday, April 18, 2026, Orombi delivered a powerful message of hope to learners, many of whom he said grapple with low self-esteem rooted in their backgrounds. He urged them to rise above societal perceptions and draw inspiration from national figures like Apollo Milton Obote and Janani Luwum, who rose from humble beginnings to shape Uganda’s history.

“Where you come from should never define where you are going,” Orombi said, reminding students that they had no control over their birth circumstances but have full responsibility over their future.

While acknowledging that Northern Uganda remains among the country’s poorest regions, Orombi linked poverty not only to material lack but also to mindset, urging learners to think beyond limitations and embrace discipline, faith, and hard work. Drawing from scripture, he quoted Psalms 119:11, encouraging students to remain grounded in God, respect authority, and stay focused on their ambitions.

He also cautioned against the misuse of social media, warning that it can either build or destroy depending on how young people choose to engage with it.

IGG Targets Schools in Anti-Corruption Drive

The event also marked the launch of the “Integrity Ambassador Club” by the Inspectorate of Government, a new initiative aimed at instilling values of transparency and accountability among students.

Kworo High School is among the first beneficiaries in Pader District, joining other institutions across the Acholi, Lango and Karamoja sub-regions already implementing the program.

Deputy Inspector General of Government Anne Twinomugisha Muhairwe said the clubs are designed to complement national anti-corruption efforts by shaping ethical values early in life.

“The integrity club aims to instil honesty and responsibility among students, teachers, and the wider community,” she said, noting that about 50 such clubs have already been established nationwide.

Muhairwe echoed Orombi’s message, urging students to remain rooted in strong values and faith, stressing that background should never determine one’s destiny.

Shaping a Generation of Ethical Leaders

Officials from the Inspectorate outlined a broader vision of grooming principled future leaders through practical engagement. Christine Lamwaka, Manager for Advocacy and Capacity Building, called on students to take the initiative seriously, noting its potential to transform attitudes and leadership culture.

Gerald Gwaira, Director of Research, Education, and Advocacy, said the program will be scaled to all secondary schools and later extended to primary institutions, with support from civil society organizations and other partners.

Activities under the clubs will include debates, drama, essay writing, tree planting, and inter-school exchanges — all aimed at promoting integrity, teamwork, and civic responsibility.

School Embraces Reform Drive

Kworo High School leadership welcomed the initiative as timely and transformative. Director Alice Acan expressed gratitude to the Inspectorate and called for sustained engagement, including regular follow-ups to strengthen the program.

Headteacher Beatrice Atim said the club is expected to positively influence students’ discipline and mindset, aligning with the school’s mission of nurturing morally upright and patriotic citizens.

With an enrolment of 709 girls, Kworo High School now stands at the forefront of a growing movement to empower young Ugandans to take an active role in fighting corruption, starting from the classroom.