Aspiring Speaker Wanyoto Urges Ideological Grounding As 2,000 Students Join Patriotism Programme

By Swift Reporter 

More than 2,000 first- and second-year students on Monday gathered at the main hall of Uganda Technical College Elgon for the official opening of a two-week Patriotism Programme designed to instill national values, unity, and civic responsibility among the youth.

The programme was officially launched by Mbale City Woman Member of Parliament-elect, Lydia Wanyoto Mutende, who presided over the event as Guest of Honour. In her address, she underscored the importance of ideological grounding among young people, urging students to embrace patriotism as a cornerstone for personal growth and national development.

Hon. Wanyoto highlighted key commitments outlined in the National Resistance Movement (NRM) Manifesto 2026–2031, particularly those centered on youth empowerment, peace and security, and skills development. She noted that the government continues to prioritize structured engagement of young people across the country, both within and outside formal education institutions.

She further explained that under the Office of the President and State House Uganda, six-month regional skilling programmes have been established nationwide to equip youth with practical, marketable skills. In the Bugisu sub-region, she said, the skilling centre is located in Lukhonje, providing hands-on training and linking beneficiaries to government-supported SACCOs for start-up capital to begin income-generating activities.

“Use your time in school wisely,” Hon. Wanyoto advised. “Focus on gaining qualifications and skills that will secure a better future for you and your families.”

She also reminded learners of the NRM’s core pillars of peace, security, and socio-economic transformation, encouraging them to remain disciplined, hardworking, and committed to contributing positively to Uganda’s development.

The two-week Patriotism Programme will cover Uganda’s history, leadership journey, national values, and the critical role young people play in safeguarding peace and stability. Organisers described the turnout of over 2,000 students as a strong indication of growing enthusiasm among the youth to actively participate in nation-building initiatives.