Commissioner Opolot urges elites to engage with communities for realization of education impact

Pallisa, (UG):– The declining interest in education within many communities stems from a disconnect between the elite class and the general population, according to Dr. Henry Nakalet Opolot, a commissioner at the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry, and Fisheries.

Speaking at a thanksgiving ceremony for Mr Okiring Joseph, who celebrated his Master’s degree achievement from Uganda Management Institute (UMI), Dr Opolot emphasized that many educated individuals isolate themselves, creating the perception that education fosters discrimination rather than empowerment.

“The elite are making a great mistake by distancing themselves from the common people. This discourages others from valuing education,” Dr. Opolot noted. He praised Mr Okiring for his focus, entrepreneurship, and dedication, urging students and professionals to emulate his determination. He further highlighted that pursuing higher education, such as Master’s and PhD programs, should not be seen as a path to wealth but as a means to gain wisdom and contribute to society.

Mr. Okiring, currently employed at the National Agricultural Research Organization (NARO) under the Ministry of Agriculture, previously worked with the National Livestock Resources Research Institute (NaLIRRI) in Tororo, Namulonge/Nakyesasa in Wakiso, and Maruzi in Apac, as well as Heifer International in Kaberamaido.

His academic journey includes; a Master’s in Management Science (UMI) (2023-2024), a Postgraduate Diploma in Project Planning and Management (UMI) (2014-2015), a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture (Gulu University) (2008-2012), and a Diploma in Animal Production & Management (Arapai Agricultural College, now Busitema University) (2004-2007). He completed Primary and secondary education at Kalaki Primary School, Pallisa SS, and Mbale SS.

Beyond his professional career, Okiring is also an entrepreneur. He serves as the CEO of St. Joseph’s Junior School – Akadot, a leading institution in Pallisa District, and runs Amazing Destiny Events, a catering and events management business operating in Pallisa and Serere districts.

The thanksgiving function, held at St. Joseph’s Junior School – Akadot, was presided over by Bishop Rev. Peter Okello Oonyu of Saints of God Church in partnership with Rev. Simon Okuni, the Diocesan Secretary of the Pentecostal Assemblies of God.

Bishop Okello encouraged the congregation to always put God first in their endeavours and praised Okiring for choosing to celebrate his academic milestone within his community rather than in an upscale venue. “Many people with advanced degrees opt to host their celebrations in big hotels, but Okiring has set a good example by holding his ceremony at home and involving the church,” Rev. Okello stated.

Peter Carlos Ebiau, speaking on behalf of Okiring’s friends, acknowledged the difficulty of earning a Master’s degree at UMI, revealing that only five out of 200 enrolled students successfully graduated in 2022. Mr Walimbwa Joseph Jacob, who graduated alongside Okiring, added that out of 635 students, only 63 completed their programs.

Pallisa District Vice Chairperson, Clement Opakasi, commended Okiring not only for his academic achievement but also for his entrepreneurial contributions. “He is not just an academic success story; he is an entrepreneur generating local revenue and employing over 200 people in his institutions and businesses,” Opakasi stated.

The event attracted several political aspirants, including Ben Okiria, who is vying for the Pallisa District LC5 seat, Herbert Dakasi, a candidate for the Pallisa County parliamentary seat, and Jane Abbo, Okiring’s wife, who is seeking the Pallisa District Woman MP position.