Col. Night Ikiriza Urges Kitende S.S. Students to Embrace Patriotism, Discipline and Positive Mindset

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, representing 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, stressing that 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, urging students to take responsibility for their actions both at school and at home.

She encouraged the learners to develop a spirit of initiative instead of waiting to be directed, while reminding them about Uganda’s difficult past and the importance of appreciating and protecting the peace the country enjoys today.

Col. Ikiriza also urged students to reject tribalism, religious discrimination and other forms of segregation, emphasizing unity, respect and the value of every person.

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

The SFC senior officer encouraged students to support national development programmes, East African integration and Pan-Africanism, saying Africa’s future depends on cooperation and shared responsibility among Africans.

She cautioned the students against negative behaviours such as corruption, theft, bad peer influence, pornography and irresponsible use of social media. Col. Ikiriza further urged the learners to remain focused on their education and develop the courage, discipline and determination required to overcome challenges rather than simply complaining about them. She emphasized resilience and hard work, encouraging 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 advised students to appreciate what their parents are able to provide and avoid unhealthy comparisons with others. “What your father failed to do, you will accomplish,” she challenged them.

Col. Ikiriza said Uganda needs more than citizens who can speak good English, emphasizing the need for people with integrity who can uphold their values and principles even when faced with difficult circumstances. In her closing message, she encouraged the students to work hard, maintain discipline and uphold positive values while considering opportunities to serve the country in government and other sectors. She stressed that patriotism should be demonstrated through action, responsibility and service, saying Uganda’s future depends on a disciplined, focused and value-driven generation.