First Lady renews call for morally grounded student leadership

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Reinforcing ongoing efforts to mould value-driven young leaders, the First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, Mrs Janet Museveni, reminded university student leaders that the privilege of education carries an equal measure of responsibility.

Her message was delivered by the Vision Group Editor-in-Chief, Barbara Kaija, during the Global Leadership Summit Student Leaders Edition 2025 for Uganda, held under the theme Lead Where You Are, at Kampala Sheraton Hotel on November 28, 2025.

The First Lady emphasised the need for young people to trust in God so they are not drawn into moral pitfalls.

“I urge you to value your education and view it as a great opportunity that unlocks your potential to understand the world, solve its complex challenges, and contribute meaningfully to shaping the future of our nation. This time in your lives is not just a stepping stone to a career; it is the foundation upon which you build your legacy,” Mrs Museveni stated.

She commended the student leaders from Makerere University and Makerere University Business School for attending the blended physical and online event, which featured both national and international leadership facilitators.

“I am pleased to officiate at the opening of the Global Leadership Summit Student Leaders Edition 2025! I thank you for making the time to invest in your personal development, as you expand your leadership capacity, through this world-class training,” she said.

Mrs Museveni reinforced her message with Genesis 39:9, noting Joseph’s exemplary relationship with God and his strong stand against immorality.

She added, “This demonstrates that Joseph’s entire perspective on life was measured against his relationship with God! Similarly, your life choices should be guided by a moral compass that points to your true north as embedded in the biblical principles of integrity, respect, and servant leadership. Always remember that the discipline you cultivate now, in building your character, will be the cornerstone of your future leadership.”

The First Lady thanked the Global Leadership Summit for supporting leadership development in Uganda through expertise and world-class resources.

In partnership with the Global Leadership Summit in Uganda and Makerere University, she is spearheading the Emerging Leaders Programme, which is currently in the pilot phase at Makerere before being expanded to other universities and institutions of higher learning.

The programme aims to equip students with life skills, values, and character development that prepare them for responsible leadership.

Kaija, who is also a co-chair of the programme, reiterated the First Lady’s passion for nurturing Uganda’s children and youth.

“She wants us to be better and to do better... You must decide today to take charge of your moral compass,” Kaija said, urging students to surround themselves with role models who embody strong values.

Betty Byanyima, the executive director of the Global Leadership Summit Uganda, said the institution operates in 110 countries.

She added that the summit was part of the Emerging Leaders Programme and attracted 60 young people who gained insights from renowned leadership experts, including Jon Acuff, Craig Groeschel, John Maxwell and local scholar Dr Damiel Ronald Ruwheza.

Speaking via video link, Groeschel shared three transformative messages on personal discipline, eliminating unhealthy comparisons, and adopting beliefs that support change.

Acuff advised that procrastination should be viewed not as a weakness but as untapped potential. In contrast, Maxwell reminded students that in a world riddled with conflict and division, character must form the foundation of leadership.

Prof. Sarah Ssali, Makerere University deputy vice chancellor in charge of academic affairs, described the summit as an investment in Uganda’s future.

She said: “The fact that you have access to such world-class content right here in Kampala is a testament to the commitment of GLS Uganda to developing the next generation of Ugandan leaders.”

Dr Paul Ddumba Ssemyalo, a lecturer in the Department of Zoology, Entomology and Fisheries Sciences, said he is leading efforts to develop a curriculum for critical subjects not currently taught at universities, including sex education and character development.

He said the course aims to produce graduates who uphold values, reject corruption and contribute effectively to national development.

“Such a course will help us to nurture non-corrupt people who can effectively pay their taxes and uphold our values. We have gone through most steps in developing the curriculum,” he said.