Apac, Uganda: The Commissioner in Charge of Patriotism in the President’s Office, Ms Hellen Seku, has called on Uganda’s future health professionals to embrace empathy, integrity, and national pride as the foundation of their service to humanity and the country.
Speaking during the pass-out ceremony of 755 students from the Florence Nightingale School of Nursing and Midwifery in Apac District on Saturday, Ms Seku delivered a passionate address urging the graduates to serve with both skill and compassion after completing a three-month patriotism course.
“Wear the uniform with empathy, serve with integrity, and love your country with action—not just words,” Seku told the attentive crowd.
She stressed that healthcare workers must demonstrate compassion, dignity, and respect for every patient, adding that a simple act of kindness could sometimes heal more effectively than medicine. “Learn to smile with your patients. Be kind. Love them. Sometimes, that love alone is enough to heal,” she said.
Ms Seku warned against indifference among health workers, noting that empathy is a duty, not a luxury, and reminded the audience that patriotism is enshrined in Article 17 of the Constitution of Uganda, which mandates all citizens to undergo patriotism training.
“Don’t use this training to become a political patriot. Be a real patriot. Love yourself, love your country, and promote your national identity,” she added.
She also cautioned young Ugandans against the blind adoption of foreign cultures, urging them to protect and preserve African values. “Be proud of your culture. The Western world is slowly killing our traditional identity. Protect it. Own it,” she said.
Tough Talk on Corruption and Theft of Drugs
In a bold warning to the medical fraternity, Ms Seku condemned corruption and the theft of medical supplies in public hospitals. “Stop stealing drugs from our hospitals. That is not patriotism—it is sabotage. If you cannot protect what is meant for the sick, you have no business wearing the nurse’s uniform,” she declared, drawing applause from the audience.
Ms Seku’s stance was echoed by Assistant Resident District Commissioner (ARDC) Jenan Okot, who called upon the graduates to act as watchdogs against corruption and to be change agents within their communities.
Mr Okot further urged the youth to tap into government economic empowerment programs such as Emyooga, the Parish Development Model (PDM), and UWEP, saying patriotism also means fighting poverty.
“Patriotism also means fighting poverty. Don’t just wear the badge—live it. Join the money economy and transform your communities,” Okot said.
The Patriotism Coordinator for Lango Sub-region, Mr. Julius Ojok, revealed that 44,111 students have completed patriotism training across the region, with a 95–97% success rate this year.
In Apac District, Ms. Milly Anyac reported that 4,400 students were trained, with only two schools—Legacy College and PAG Comprehensive S.S.—yet to join the program. “Last year, under the theme Greening Uganda, we planted over 14,000 tree seedlings and started school projects like liquid soap production and poultry keeping,” she said.
School Leaders Praise the Initiative
Mr. K.K. Akacha, the school patron, said the patriotism club had positively changed student behavior, urging government to conduct regular refresher training. “We’ve embraced this club because it works. But to maintain impact, refresher training must be regular,” Akacha said.
School Director Mr. Martin Ekel lauded the program for restoring unity and discipline, saying, “Patriotism has broken tribal barriers in our school. It has boosted discipline among both teachers and students.”
We are committed to promoting peace, love, and national pride,” he added.
Graduates who completed the training expressed gratitude for the life-changing experience. “I now feel like a role model. I’ve learned to care for everyone around me,” said Joseph Omara, one of the student patriots.
Ms Ejang Elizabeth, another graduate, added: “The theory and practical work opened my mind. I now have new skills and a new mindset to serve my school and country.”
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