Schools hold special prayer and dedication services for P7 candidates ahead of final exams

25 October 2025, 8:09 pm

By Ronald Ssemagonja

In the book of Proverbs 9:10, the Bible says, “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.” Guided by this scripture, several primary schools across Uganda have organized special prayer and dedication services for their Primary Seven (P7) candidates ahead of the national examinations.

During these events, schools invite parents, guardians, and friends to join in prayers for their children’s success, while candidates receive words of encouragement and gifts as they prepare for the final stretch of their primary education.

At Hormisdallen Schools’ main branch in Gayaza, Wakiso District, a special dedication service was held today. Speaking on behalf of the school director, Mr. Steven Batanude urged the candidates to remain calm and confident.

“We thank God for enabling us to reach this day. For the first time, we have a total of 1,014 candidates across all our three campuses. This school is known for good performance, and we believe in God that even this year, we shall do the same. To our parents, we are grateful for your support, and to our candidates, there is no need to fear—trust in God, and you will succeed,” he said.

Similarly, Budo Junior School held its own dedication service yesterday, during which parents joined in prayer and presented gifts such as flowers, success cards, and “money bouquets” to their children. Some parents said they chose money bouquets because their children specifically requested them.

“I called the school nurse and asked to speak to my daughter. She told me she wanted a money bouquet as her gift. Because I love her and wish her well, I decided to buy it,” said one parent who preferred anonymity.

When asked whether such gifts might distract the learners, most parents said it depends on a child’s upbringing.

“It’s fine to gift your child on such a special day—it happens once a year. But a child’s background matters. If your child has learned to handle money responsibly, they won’t be distracted,” another parent explained.

Preachers at the services encouraged the pupils to face the examinations with faith and courage. The Minister of State for Kampala and Metropolitan Affairs, Hon. Kyofatogabye Kabuye, who attended the Hormisdallen event, advised parents especially those with daughters to keep praying and monitoring their children.

“Since COVID-19 hit the country, things have changed. You can find a girl aged 12 or 14 looking older, and the devil may use that to mislead her. Parents, please continue praying for our children and monitoring them, even during vacation,” he said.

Candidates expressed gratitude to God for life and wisdom and promised to make their parents and teachers proud by performing better than last year’s group.

Briefing for P7 candidates is scheduled for next Friday, marking the final preparation before the national examinations begin.