The Member of Parliament representing the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) and Director of Human Resource Management at the Special Forces Command (SFC), Hon. Col. Night Ikiriza, has urged students of Kitende Secondary School to embrace patriotism, discipline, integrity and a positive mindset as essential values for personal growth and national development.

Col. Ikiriza, who represented the SFC Commander, Maj. Gen. Asaph Mweteise Nyakikuru, made the remarks while delivering a Lecture of Opportunity on patriotism and mindset change at the school.

She told the students that patriotism goes beyond national symbols and recognition, saying it begins with self-respect, personal discipline, responsibility and good character.

“True patriotism begins with self-love, self-respect and personal discipline,” Col. Ikiriza said.

She challenged the students to take responsibility for their actions both at school and at home and to develop a spirit of initiative rather than always waiting to be directed.

Col. Ikiriza also reminded the learners of Uganda’s difficult past and encouraged them to appreciate the peace the country enjoys while recognising their responsibility to protect and sustain it.

She urged the students to reject tribalism, religious discrimination and other forms of segregation, stressing the importance of unity, respect and valuing people regardless of their background.

“What is important is the person,” she said.

The SFC senior officer further encouraged the students to embrace government development programmes, East African integration and Pan-Africanism, noting that Africa’s future depends on cooperation and shared responsibility among its people.

She cautioned the learners against negative behaviours, including corruption, theft, negative peer influence, pornography and irresponsible use of social media.

Instead, she encouraged them to remain focused on their education and develop the courage, discipline and determination needed to overcome challenges rather than simply complaining about them.

Col. Ikiriza emphasized resilience and hard work, urging the students not to lose hope because of temporary failures.

“Someone with determination, a hard worker and a resilient person can never fail to succeed,” she said.

She also encouraged the students to appreciate what their parents are able to provide and avoid unhealthy comparisons with their peers.

“What your father failed to do, you will accomplish,” she challenged them.

Col. Ikiriza said Uganda needs more than people who can speak good English, arguing that the country needs citizens of integrity who can uphold their values and principles even in difficult circumstances.

In her closing remarks, she urged the students to work hard, maintain discipline and uphold positive values while considering opportunities to serve the country in government and other sectors.

She emphasised that patriotism is ultimately demonstrated through action, responsibility and service, saying Uganda’s future depends on a disciplined, focused and value-driven generation.