UPDF takes patriotism campaign to Budo students' career day

The Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) Acting Deputy Director of Defence Public Information, Maj. Bilal Katamba has challenged students to embrace patriotism as a key component in helping the government fight corruption and improve service delivery.

Katamba, who was representing a team of UPDF soldiers at Kings College Budo Annual Career Day, emphasised the importance of patriotism in serving Uganda diligently, which he said contributed positively to the country’s development.

“I want you to embrace patriotism, discipline, and a commitment to serving Uganda. By embracing patriotism, students can develop a sense of ownership and accountability in the fight against social ills,” he said.

Dr. Connie Nshemereirwe, the Director at Future Africa, urged students to aim high and pursue their passions with dedication.

“Once you’re done with school and happen to get a job in any field of study, use that chance to get another job through innovation within those specific roles,” she said.
Nshemereirwe reminded them to keep the virtues of discipline, hard work and excellence in whatever they do. 

During the event, students presented different projects in technological innovations, environmental protection, practical classroom knowledge and information communication technology (ICT) expertise.

Private Anne Nakandi having a discussion with students.

Budo Head Teacher, Canon John Fred Kazibwe commended the event, noting that all participating speakers and institutions had been thoughtfully chosen.

“Career guidance is a cornerstone of our academic mission and whatever is discussed or done during this event shall be your foundation in education throughout your life,” he advised.

The event featured exhibitions from top organisations, including Uganda Christian University (UCU), DFCU Bank, Uganda Police, TotalEnergies, and the National Water and Sewerage Corporation, each presenting a range of professional pathways for students to explore.

The Patriotism Secretariat was launched by President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni in 2009 with the aim of inculcating norms and values of patriotism in students and youth of Uganda in order to develop, become resourceful, responsible, disciplined and resilient citizens who are loyal and ready to defend and transform Uganda.

“It is important for you, as young people,e to embrace patriotism in order to be useful Ugandans who will participate in the implementation of Vision 2040 after we have aged,” he said.

The National Secretariat for Patriotic Corps (NSPC) was established in 2009 with the mandate to develop and coordinate patriotism clubs in all post-primary schools and institutions country-wide.

It is a national strategic initiative by Museveni to inculcate the norms and values of patriotism to all students and the youth of Uganda with the ultimate goal of producing a new breed of enlightened citizens committed and devoted to the national cause, willing to sacrifice for the country.

Dr Connie Nshemereirwe remarks

Legal framework

The 1995 constitution under section xxix of the National Objective and Directives principles of State Policy commands every citizen of Uganda to be Patriotic and loyal to this country.

Stated, “The exercise and enjoyment of rights is inseparable from the fulfilment of duties. Among the duties is that every citizen of this country must be Patriotic and Loyal to this country."

The constitution further in Article 17 (2) commands that it will be the duty of all able-bodied citizens to undergo military training for the defence of this Country and the Constitution whenever called upon; and the State shall ensure that facilities are available for such training.