Students urged to embrace patriotism at pass-out ceremony

23 April 2026, 7:21 pm

Acholi-Pii Army Secondary School girl handing over present to Lt. Col. David Ahabwe Ntimba who represented Achol-Pii Division Commander

By  Geoffrey Okwong 

Students at Acholi-Pii Army Secondary School and the entire northern Uganda have been urged to embrace patriotism as a fundamental value during a pass-out ceremony attended by staff, students, and invited guests.

Among the keynote speakers was Captain Waiswa Gabriel, the Deputy Head Teacher in charge of Administration, who emphasized that patriotism should be reflected in everyday actions rather than mere words.

He noted that many people misunderstand patriotism, often reducing it to slogans instead of demonstrating genuine love for their country.

Captain Waiswa outlined three key ways students can demonstrate patriotism. First, he encouraged learners to take pride in their national identity and always identify themselves as Ugandans wherever they go.

 Recalling his time as a student in Busia, he said some learners preferred to associate themselves with Kenya due to perceptions of better development—a mindset he strongly discouraged.

“That attitude is wrong. We must always be proud of our national identity wherever we go,” he said.

He also stressed the importance of respecting national symbols, including the national motto, flag, and currency, noting that disregard for these reflects a lack of appreciation for the country.

“When the flag is being raised, it deserves respect and attention, yet some people ignore this moment,” he added.

Captain Waiswa further highlighted sacrifice as a key element of patriotism, urging students to be willing to serve their country in all areas, including remote regions.

He called for unity, collective responsibility, and a forward-looking mindset focused on building a peaceful and prosperous Uganda.

The Deputy Resident District Commissioner also addressed the gathering, emphasizing the importance of peace and stability in enabling national development. He noted that Uganda has made significant progress in infrastructure, education, and economic opportunities.

He highlighted government initiatives such as Uganda Vision 2040, aimed at transforming the country into a modern and prosperous nation.

Students were congratulated for completing the training and encouraged to uphold values such as discipline, teamwork, respect for authority, and responsible citizenship. They were also urged to remain focused on their education to benefit from emerging opportunities in sectors such as industry and oil development.

He also encouraged parents and communities were to support young people through productive activities, particularly agriculture. He equally advised households to engage in both food and cash crop production, including coffee growing, to improve incomes and ensure food security.

He further advised Students to use their holidays wisely, assist their families, and avoid behaviors that could negatively impact their education.

Speaking on behalf of the students, Senior One representative Vicky expressed gratitude to the school leadership, instructors, teachers, and parents for their support throughout the training programme.

She noted that the programme had helped shape students’ character, instill discipline, and equip them with valuable life skills.

Vicky congratulated her fellow students and encouraged them to uphold values of discipline, unity, integrity, and patriotism as they return to their communities.

The students pledged to apply the knowledge and skills acquired to contribute positively to national development.

The ceremony marked the successful completion of a rigorous patriotism training programme aimed at nurturing disciplined and responsible young citizens.

The function that began on the 17th ended today saw a total of 470 senoir one students passes out at a ceremony with a “Theme: Patiotism as a Catalyst for Mindset change, National Unity, and Wealth Creation”

The function also saw the best performing students in the different categories awarded with certificates, this included Beatrice Acan Bafumba, Omeda Gyan best in discipline, and Silas Olao who was best in drill.

In attendance were Lt. Col. David Ahabwe Ntimba who represented the Division Commander, Achol-Pii, Major James Alomu, the Head Teacher Achol-Pii Army Secondary School, Pule Boniface, the Assistant RDC Pader,