As part of the 45th Tarehe Sita Anniversary celebrations across the Kigezi Sub-region, secondary school students participated in spirited debates highlighting the importance of safeguarding the gains of the 1986 revolution and honouring Uganda’s freedom fighters.
In Kabale District, Bishop Kivengere Girls’ School, Muyebe, faced off against St. Gertrude’s Girls’ Vocational Secondary School, Mutolere, debating the motion: “This House Asserts that defending the gains of the 1986 revolution and honouring the freedom fighters is essential for achieving national unity, peace, and socio-economic transformation in Uganda.”
While addressing the students, Lt. Col. Robert Kamuntu, the Tarehe Sita team leader, urged them to appreciate the freedom to engage in such discussions without fear.
“When there is security, a lot can be achieved,” he said, reminding them to safeguard the existing peace and remain alert to threats that may destabilise it.
The District Education Officer, Mr. Francis Mwijukye, highlighted national progress since 1986, including infrastructure development, improved social services, and strengthened peace and stability.
Students described the debates as empowering platforms that helped them express their views and build confidence, while teachers commended the Joint Staff Political Commissariat for providing an enabling environment for learning and constructive dialogue.
In Kisoro Municipal Council, Seseme Girls’ Secondary School debated St. Agatha Girls’ Secondary School, Kakore, under the same motion. The affirmative team from Seseme Girls emerged winners, presenting compelling arguments on the importance of defending the revolution’s gains to safeguard peace, stability, gender equality, and national development.
Deputy RDC Dan Ndikumwami congratulated the participants and encouraged them to continue spreading the message of defending Uganda’s freedom and honouring her heroes.
Lt. Col. Patrick Mukundane, Director of Education, Sports and Culture, emphasised the value of ideological debates in shaping the mindset of future leaders.
In Kanungu District, the debate between Kihihi Moslem Secondary School and Kashenyi Secondary School was officiated by Chief Administrative Officer Mr. Awuye Abdallah, who praised the UPDF for initiating the activity as a tool for youth engagement and for deepening understanding of Uganda’s liberation history.
Major Josephat Tumukunde, Head of Education under UPDF Joint Staff, underlined the exercise’s role in nurturing values of peace, security, and social transformation among young leaders.
Rukungiri Municipal Council also hosted an inter-school debate featuring Immaculate Heart Girls’ School, Nyakibale, and St. Paul Secondary School, Bukinda. Col. Robert Ngabirano, UPDF Director of Education, Sports and Culture – Air Force, presided over the event and applauded the students for their intellect and confidence. St. Paul Secondary School, Bukinda, emerged victorious, with students expressing gratitude to the President and the UPDF leadership for creating opportunities that nurture youth talent.
Across all venues, the debates showcased students’ understanding of Uganda’s history and achievements, as well as their skills in critical thinking, public speaking, and civic responsibility.
The 45th Tarehe Sita Anniversary continues to serve as a dynamic platform for engaging young people in reflecting on the country’s past while inspiring commitment to its continued peace and development.
