education 5 October 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
All Senior Six Leavers to Undergo Mandatory Patriotism Training in Kyankwanzi
Uganda is set to implement a mandatory six-month patriotism training program for all Senior Six leavers at the National Leadership Institute (NALI) in Kyankwanzi. The initiative, approved by President Museveni, aims to instill discipline, national identity, and civic responsibility in young Ugandans. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/all-senior-six-leavers-to-undergo-patriotism-training-at-kyankwanzi-5620074
The Ugandan government has announced a significant initiative to mandate a six-month patriotism training course for all students completing Senior Six. This program will be conducted at the National Leadership Institute (NALI) in Kyankwanzi, with the aim of fostering discipline, a strong sense of national identity, and civic responsibility among the youth.
Ms. Hellen Seku, the Commissioner of the National Secretariat for Patriotism Corps (NSPC), revealed this directive during a recent pass-out ceremony. She confirmed that President Yoweri Museveni has given his approval for the program to commence this year. This move revives a long-standing tradition of ideological and civic orientation for post-secondary students.
Ms. Seku emphasized that this training is constitutionally supported, referencing Article 17, Clause 2 of the Ugandan Constitution, which states that citizens have a duty to undergo patriotism training when provided by the government. The scope of NSPC’s mandate has also broadened, now including higher learning institutions and individuals in the informal sector, such as boda-boda operators.
In addition to the new graduates, school patrons, coordinators, teachers, and head teachers who have not yet received or require a refresher on patriotism training will also be required to attend. This ensures a consistent message and reinforces the program’s objectives across the education sector.
The training sessions previously held for over 1,700 students involved early morning drills, physical training, and lectures on various topics including national history, Pan-Africanism, HIV/AIDS awareness, and environmental protection. Facilitators include senior UPDF officers and professional lecturers.
Educators and local leaders have largely welcomed the revived program, with some recalling the positive and lasting impact of similar training they received in the past. They believe it builds resilience and prepares young people for societal challenges, including ethical conduct in public service. The program seeks to equip students with more than just academic knowledge, focusing on character development and a commitment to national progress.