Namagunga Dismisses Anti-Government Allegations as 800 Girls Complete Patriotism Course

What the report says

Mt St Mary’s College Namagunga in Mukono District has dismissed allegations that it is hostile to government education policy after 800 students completed Uganda’s National Patriotism Course. According to Nile Post, the school’s leadership said the claims were unfounded and urged the graduates to carry messages of peace, discipline and responsible citizenship into their communities.

The training covered patriotism, military drills, self-defence and ways to respond to attacks. At the graduation ceremony, Hellen Seku, a commissioner at the National Secretariat for Patriotism Corps, said patriotism extends beyond military service and encouraged the students to use social media to promote Uganda, focus on shared national interests and contribute positively to society. She also called on them to oppose corruption, uphold moral values and protect themselves from exploitation.

Students who took part said the course broadened their understanding of national service. The head of the school, Sister Regina Nabawanuka, said the programme had strengthened students’ sense of responsibility and should be reflected in their future conduct, including at work and in the environment. She also rejected suggestions that the school was resisting government policy, saying the dispute was linked to pressure from some officials to secure admissions through bribery.

More broadly, the event reflects how patriotism programmes are being used in Ugandan schools to promote civic identity and national loyalty, alongside debates over school governance and state influence.