The Member of Parliament representing the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) and Director Human Resource Management at the Special Forces Command (SFC), Hon. Col. Night Ikiriza, has urged students of Kitende Secondary School to embrace patriotism, discipline, integrity and a positive mindset as key values for personal growth and national development.
Col. Ikiriza, who represented the SFC Commander, Maj Gen. Asaph Mweteise Nyakikuru, made the remarks today while delivering a Lecture of Opportunity on patriotism and mindset change at the school.
She told the students that patriotism goes beyond recognition and national symbols, saying it starts with self-respect, discipline, responsibility and good character.
“True patriotism begins with self-love, self-respect and personal discipline,” Col. Ikiriza said, challenging students to take responsibility for their actions both at school and at home and to develop a spirit of initiative rather than waiting to be directed.
Col. Ikiriza reminded the students about Uganda’s difficult past and encouraged them to appreciate the peace the country enjoys while playing a role in protecting it.
She urged the learners to reject tribalism, religious discrimination and all forms of segregation, emphasizing the importance of unity, respect and valuing humanity.
“What is important is the person,” she said.
She encouraged students to embrace government development programmes, East African integration and Pan-Africanism, noting that the future of the continent depends on cooperation and shared responsibility among Africans.
The SFC senior officer cautioned students against negative behaviours, including corruption, theft, bad peer influence, pornography and irresponsible use of social media.
She advised them to remain focused on education and develop the courage, discipline and determination needed to overcome challenges instead of simply complaining about them.
Col. Ikiriza emphasized the importance of resilience and hard work, encouraging students not to lose hope because of temporary failures.
“Someone with determination, a hard worker and a resilient person can never fail to succeed,” she said.
She urged students to appreciate what their parents can provide and avoid being influenced by dissatisfaction and unhealthy comparisons.
“What your father failed to do, you will accomplish,” she challenged them.
Col. Ikiriza noted that Uganda does not only need people who can speak good English but citizens with integrity who can uphold their values and principles even in difficult situations.
In her closing remarks, Col. Ikiriza encouraged the students to work hard, maintain discipline and uphold positive values while considering opportunities to serve the country in government and other sectors.
She reminded them that patriotism is demonstrated through action, responsibility and service, stressing that Uganda’s future depends on a disciplined, focused and value-driven generation.
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