Museveni hails Church's role in education, health

By Andrew Ssenyonga         

KAMPALA - President Yoweri Museveni has commended the Church in Uganda for complementing the Government efforts in providing health and education services.

"The contribution of the Church in social and charitable work in the country, particularly in education and health, has been noteworthy," Museveni said.

The services were crucial to the welfare of Ugandans, he said.

Museveni’s message was read by Vice-President Edward Ssekandi during the 16th anniversary celebrations of Bishop Cipriano Kihangire S. S.S Luzira in Kampala.

The President hailed Fr. John Scalabrini for a noble venture of starting the facility 16 years ago.

"This is a unique school with rich history and a strong foundation laid on a strong religious background formed at a time when there was great need for education in the area; and no doubt it has made great contribution to socio-economic development for the people.

"We appreciate the numerous primary, secondary, vocational schools and institutions built on the foundation of the Catholic Church.”

The Ugandan added that his government is also grateful for a number of health centers and hospitals built on the foundation of the Church.

"We also commend the institution for the economic initiatives that are helping the population realize their potential by utilizing resources around them to create wealth.”

His call to all stakeholders in education is to ensure that it is relevant and captivating by celebrating diversity, promoting creativity and innovation.

 Speaking earlier before reading the speech, Vice President Ssekandi too congratulated the school – Bishop Cipriano Kihangire S.S.S. – and said that its services should inspire every individual to contribute to society.

He also hailed the administration for promoting science education.

A number of innovations were exhibited by the students, including a car that would use energy, a smart board for learning and many others.

The headteacher of the school, Victor Okello, called for government interventions especially on taxes in order to enable them meet other expenses.