Over 2,900 learners encouraged to uphold patriotism after pass out

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In efforts to instil civic responsibility and national values among young people across the country, 2,900 learners have completed the national patriotism programme, marking a significant milestone.

The latest cohort registered an overwhelming response from institutions nationwide, underscoring the growing interest in the initiative and its expanding footprint among Uganda’s youth.

Of the graduates, 300 were students drawn from various secondary schools, while 2,600 participants came from tertiary institutions across the country.

The Commissioner of the National Secretariat for Patriotism Corps (NSPC) at State House, Hellen Seku, poses with on of the learners who completed the national patriotism programme after handing him a certificate. (Courtesy photo)

The numbers reflect a broad-based embrace of the programme at multiple levels of learning.

The Commissioner of the National Secretariat for Patriotism Corps (NSPC) at State House, Hellen Seku, described the impressive turnout as a clear sign of young people’s willingness to understand and promote patriotism, unity and national development.

Seku officiated at the pass-out ceremony of 300 students at the Institute of Survey and Land Management in Entebbe, Wakiso district at the end of February 2026, following a week-long National Patriotism Training programme. She urged the young professionals to uphold patriotism, hard work and love for their careers as critical pillars for national transformation.

“I thank the students for embracing patriotism training. I can assure you that it is going to open doors for you,” she said.

Addressing concerns about the institute’s establishment as an alternative pathway to higher education, Seku reassured the students that opportunities for their expertise abound.

“I understand that this institute was established as an alternative to joining Makerere University; however, do not worry. Look around Uganda all landowners need your services, and the Ministry of Lands needs staff, such as in the Office of the Registry,” she emphasised.

Shaping mindsets

Seku clarified that patriotism training is not limited to drills or ceremonial displays but rather focuses on shaping mindsets and instilling core national values. According to her, the programme nurtures love for one’s profession, reverence for God, appreciation of culture and the strengthening of family bonds.

“In patriotism, our core values include loving your career. When you love what you do and work hard, you will enjoy the fruits thereof,” Seku said.

She added that trainees are encouraged to honour God, celebrate Uganda’s cultural heritage, including traditional food, norms, and dress, and to reinforce family ties by respecting parents and maintaining extended family relationships.

Integrity and service

Throughout the week-long training, facilitators engaged participants on their central role in nation-building, emphasising discipline, integrity and service to the country. The sessions were designed to cultivate a sense of national consciousness alongside professional competence.

2,900 learners have completed the national patriotism programme. (Courtesy photo)

Seku also thanked the institute principal Oguro Benard for his leadership in ensuring that students not only gain technical knowledge but also deepen their understanding of national identity.

“I thank Principal Benard Oguro for training students here to learn more about their country. The time is now to understand it better than ever before,” she said.

The National Patriotism Training programme continues to target both students and members of the informal sector, equipping them with practical skills, ethical grounding and a mindset aligned with national transformation.

Training programme

Last week, the National Secretariat for Patriotism launched an ideological orientation and patriotism development training programme in four technical colleges across the country. The programme continues this week, having started on Sunday and running through Saturday in Lira, Masindi and Mbale districts.

President Yoweri Museveni has long championed the integration of patriotism lessons into the national curriculum, stressing the importance of ensuring that young Ugandans understand their history, values and civic responsibilities.

Under his leadership, the Government has rolled out structured programmes targeting schools at all levels, from secondary institutions to universities. The objective is to ensure that students acquire not only academic qualifications but also a deep appreciation for national unity and development.

Museveni has repeatedly emphasised that nurturing patriotism among the youth is essential for building a stable, cohesive and forward-looking nation. He has called upon educators, community leaders and families to actively support this vision and reinforce the values promoted through the programme.

As the number of graduates grows, officials say the programme is steadily shaping a generation that sees service, discipline and integrity not as abstract ideals, but as practical tools for personal success and national progress.