Patriotism Course Launched at Kitebi SS: State House Comptroller Urges Students to Prioritize Education & National Service

March 24, 2026 Lucas Fernandez – World Editor World

Kitebi Secondary School yesterday hosted the official launch of a latest Patriotism Development course, spearheaded by State House Comptroller Jane Barekye. The course aims to instill national values in students, with Ms. Barekye delivering a lecture focused on opportunities available to Ugandan youth.

Ms. Barekye was welcomed by Captain Richard Owaruhanga, Assistant Commissioner in charge of training at the National Secretariat for Patriotism Corps (NSPC), alongside Course Coordinator Job Titus Seku and Kitebi SS Head Teacher Muhammed Kamulegeya, who also serves as the Patriotism Coordinator for Rubaga Division.

Addressing the students, Ms. Barekye highlighted the origins of the patriotism program, attributing its inception to President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni and praising the current leadership of Commissioner Hellen Seku. She stressed the importance of academic dedication, stating that “a true patriot does not repeat classes” and encouraging students to strive for excellence in their studies. “You can be anything you desire to be when you focus on your studies,” she added.

The State House Comptroller also cautioned students against what she termed immoral behaviors, specifically mentioning homosexuality and advising them to choose friends exhibiting discipline, hard work, and good character. She further urged students to avoid divisive political groups and refrain from engaging in disrespectful political discourse.

Beyond academics and moral conduct, Ms. Barekye emphasized the significance of self-care, including maintaining good hygiene and presenting oneself appropriately, as integral components of patriotism. She expressed confidence in the potential of young women, citing Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja and Speaker of Parliament Anita Among as examples of female leadership in Uganda.

Ms. Barekye also acknowledged the role of President Museveni and First Lady Janet Kataaha Museveni in expanding access to education through the Universal Primary and Secondary Education (UPE and USE) initiatives. She noted that these programs have benefited numerous students, including herself.

Recognizing that not all students may pursue traditional higher education, Ms. Barekye informed the students about the Presidential Skilling Hubs project. These hubs offer free vocational training in areas such as carpentry, hairdressing, fashion design, and engineering, and provide start-up capital to graduates. She clarified that the skilling certificates awarded through these hubs are equivalent to a Senior Four certificate, enabling further studies in tertiary institutions.

Mr. Kamulegeya expressed gratitude to Commissioner Seku for extending the patriotism program to Kitebi SS, anticipating participation from over 3,000 students, including more than 1,000 Senior One students and 460 Senior Five students. Captain Owaruhanga thanked President Museveni for his “visionary leadership” and Ms. Barekye for her support of the program, as well as Commissioner Seku for her commitment to strengthening patriotism among Ugandan youth. He also briefed Ms. Barekye on the course curriculum.