Education must produce leaders who transform Uganda, Otunnu tells students

21 July 2026, 7:56 am

By Geoffrey Okwong

Former United Nations Under-Secretary-General Ambassador Olara Otunnu has challenged Uganda’s education system to move beyond producing students who merely excel in examinations, urging schools to nurture ethical leaders, critical thinkers and innovators capable of transforming the country.

Speaking during celebrations at Archbishop Flynn Secondary School in Pader District, Otunnu said education should equip young people with the knowledge, values and courage to solve society’s challenges and contribute meaningfully to national development.

The celebrations marked the school’s feast day in honour of St. Joseph the Worker, the 39th priestly anniversary of the school’s founder and director, Msgr. Matthew Odong, the welcoming of Senior One students, and recognition of the school’s outstanding performance in the 2025 Uganda Certificate of Education (UCE) and Uganda Advanced Certificate of Education (UACE) examinations.

Otunnu praised Archbishop Flynn Secondary School for its consistent academic excellence, saying the institution has distinguished itself as one of Uganda’s leading schools. However, he cautioned that academic success alone is not enough if it is not accompanied by integrity, compassion and a commitment to serving society.

He urged students to develop independent thinking, creativity and moral courage, saying Uganda’s future depends on a generation that can provide solutions to the country’s social, economic and governance challenges.

Earlier, during the celebration Mass, Msgr. Christopher Komakech called on students to embrace hard work, humility and service as the foundation for achieving their full potential.

Reflecting on the day’s theme, “May They Be One,” the priest said education should shape not only the intellect but also the character of young people, enabling them to participate in God’s work by serving humanity.

He encouraged learners to emulate St. Joseph the Worker, describing him as a model of humility, dedication and faithful service whose life demonstrates the dignity of labour and the importance of using one’s talents for the common good.

Otunnu echoed the call for responsible leadership, urging students to use the opportunities provided by education to become citizens who uphold justice, integrity and selfless service.

The combined messages from the church and education leaders underscored that the true measure of education lies not only in academic achievement but also in producing graduates who possess the values, discipline and vision needed to build a peaceful, prosperous and united Uganda.