More than 3,600 students from eight nursing and midwifery institutions in Lira City are taking part in a 10-day patriotism training program. The initiative, one of the biggest in the Lango sub-region, aims to instill values of discipline, service, and national pride among Uganda’s future medical professionals.
The program is spearheaded by Lira City Resident City Commissioner (RCC) Emmy Lawrence Egole, together with his deputies and assistants, in partnership with instructors from the UPDF 5th Division and the Patriotism Secretariat.
Students are undergoing both military-style drills and civic education sessions. Training activities include drills, parades, and firearm handling, alongside lessons on Uganda’s history, national security, entrepreneurship, and civic responsibility. Division commanders are also guiding students on discipline, crime prevention, and community service.
Participating institutions include:
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Uganda Christian Institute
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Jerusalem Institute
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King James School of Nursing and Midwifery
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Good Samaritan School of Nursing and Midwifery
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Victoria School of Nursing and Midwifery
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John Fischer School of Nursing and Midwifery
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Lira Institute of Health, Management Science
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Lira Comprehensive Nursing School
Speaking to the media on August 21, 2025, RCC Egole urged the trainees to embrace patriotism as a guiding principle in their profession. He warned against corruption and theft of government drugs, calling on the young medics to serve above self.
“Uganda is stable and peaceful, and it belongs to all of us. We can defend it by having a positive attitude towards our services to the people, especially in the medical field,” Egole said.
The pass-out ceremony is scheduled for August 28, 2025, and will be officiated by Health Minister and Lira City Woman MP, Dr. Jane Ruth Aceng Ocero.
Assistant RCCs Bonny Ferdinand Okello Alele and Bonny Otucu applauded President Museveni’s emphasis on patriotism, noting that national development is only possible if Ugandans remain committed to their country.
Meanwhile, community members in Lira have praised the RCC’s team for mobilizing youth, promoting unity, and keeping the NRM visible ahead of the 2026 general elections.
