Teachers challenged to be more passionate

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Teachers have been urged to be more passionate and committed to their profession and the learners.

Luigi Giussani Institute of Higher Education (LGIHE) principal Stella Rose Akongo says education is more than just passing on knowledge.

Guest of honour Dr Cleophus Mugenyi (second right) with Luigi Giussani Institute of Higher Education (LGIHE) principal, Stella Rose Akongo (third right) and other officials pose for a photo after graduation. (Courtesy photo)

“Education is not the transfer of facts but an encounter that awakens the heart and mind.”

Akongo made the call on October 8, 2025, speaking during the institute’s 6th graduation ceremony at Luzira, Nakawa East Division in Kampala city, where 142 teachers received certificates, diplomas and degrees in various education programmes.

She reminded the graduates that “children are not empty vessels to be filled, but human beings with great potential. Your task is to help them discover who they are and what they can become”.

She emphasised that competence alone is not enough in today’s education system: Our schools need teachers who are skilled and knowledgeable, but above all, who teach with love and serve with humility.

“Teaching should be driven by compassion and a desire to serve humanity.”

A priest blessing graduates during prayers before the graduation ceremony.(Courtesy photo)

The graduation, held under the theme: Equipped to Transform: Building Competence, Serving Humanity,” attracted several government officials, educators and parents.

Support ongoing curriculum reforms

Guest of honour Dr Cleophus Mugenyi, the director of basic and secondary education at the education ministry, urged the graduates to support ongoing curriculum reforms aimed at making learning more practical and skill-based.

“Your education has prepared you to lead this transformation,” Mugenyi said, adding, “We need teachers who can solve problems, innovate and inspire learners to think critically. Be the change you wish to see in the world.”

He quoted Fr. Luigi Giussani, whose philosophy guides the institute, saying: To teach is to bring your whole personality into the classroom and become a role model that inspires learners.

Student representative Justine Namuswe thanked the institute and parents for their support throughout the academic journey.

“Today is not just a celebration of certificates, but of dreams achieved and sacrifices made,” she said.

“We are stepping into classrooms not only to teach but also to touch lives and shape a better world.”

Students celebrating after graduation. They have been urged to be more passionate and committed to their profession and learners. (Courtesy photo)

She encouraged her fellow graduates to uphold the values of Integrity, service, and excellence: Let us be the kind of teachers who not only deliver lessons but also nurture dreams.

The 142 graduates were awarded in five programmes, including certificates in childcare and early childhood education, diplomas in primary education and early childhood care, and a bachelor’s degree in primary education.

Akongo reminded the graduates to teach with both skill and heart: The world does not need brilliant teachers without humanity.

“It needs men and women who teach with compassion, inspire truth, and lead with love.”

The ceremony ended with celebrations and a renewed call for teachers to approach their work to serve and transform lives.