On October 2, 2026, Hon. Amb. Barbra Nekesa Oundo, the National Resistance Movement (NRM) National Treasurer, visited Iganga Progressive Secondary School to emphasize the importance of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education in Uganda's development. She encouraged schools to focus on producing more engineers and professionals in science and technology-related fields. Nekesa's visit coincided with the dedication of Senior Four (S.4) and Senior Six (S.6) candidates ahead of their forthcoming examinations.
Nekesa commended the school for prioritizing prayer and spiritual guidance, stressing that a strong moral foundation is crucial for nurturing disciplined and responsible citizens. She prayed for the candidates to be granted knowledge, wisdom, and understanding to excel in their examinations. The event brought together the school administration, teachers, parents, and students, highlighting the significance of academic discipline and spiritual guidance during exam preparations.
The National Resistance Movement (NRM) National Treasurer emphasized that Uganda needs more professionals in science and technology-related fields. She urged schools to give greater attention to engineering as part of efforts to prepare young people for national development demands. Nekesa believes that strengthening STEM education will enable schools to produce graduates capable of creating solutions to community challenges rather than relying solely on formal employment.
Nekesa challenged educated young people to become agents of change in their communities by helping their families adopt wealth creation initiatives and move away from subsistence livelihoods. She encouraged students, particularly those from rural communities, to apply the knowledge acquired at school to help their families understand and respond to socioeconomic challenges. Nekesa's message aimed to inspire young people to see education as a tool for transforming their lives and communities.
During her visit, Nekesa also encouraged young people to embrace patriotism and reject sectarian tendencies, recalling Uganda's history of political and social divisions before the NRM came to power in 1986. She commended Iganga Progressive Secondary School for promoting patriotism among its students, saying such initiatives can contribute to nurturing a more united society. Nekesa urged young people to participate actively in national development, noting that Uganda's predominantly young population has a crucial role to play in shaping the country's future.
Hon. Mariam Seif, the Woman Member of Parliament for Iganga District, also addressed the event, urging parents to closely monitor their children during the upcoming long holiday. She raised concerns about HIV/AIDS among teenagers in Iganga and encouraged parents to ensure their children undergo screening for sickle cell disease. Mariam emphasized the importance of awareness campaigns and immunization activities in promoting the health and well-being of children in the district.
The engagement at Iganga Progressive Secondary School highlighted the importance of education in transforming communities and promoting national development. Key stakeholders, including school leaders, teachers, parents, and students, came together to discuss issues affecting the education sector and the role of young people in shaping Uganda's future. Nekesa's call for stronger STEM education and Mariam's health concerns underscored the need for a comprehensive approach to education and community development.
Key points
- Hon. Amb. Barbra Nekesa Oundo emphasizes the need for stronger STEM education in Ugandan schools.
- Nekesa encourages young people to become agents of change in their communities.
- The event highlighted the importance of patriotism, health, and education in promoting national development.
