The National Leadership Institute (NALI) in Kyankwanzi has opened its doors to over 300 young Ugandan leaders participating in the 7th National Youth Convention.
The program, organised by the Uganda Youth Forum (UYF) in collaboration with the Uganda Christian Lawyers Fraternity (UCLF), aims to promote leadership, patriotism, and personal growth among Ugandan youth. The convention, which will last ten days, is projected to attract 350 attendees, including young people from various professional and academic backgrounds.
Colonel Henry Nevatone Seruga, Deputy Director of NALI, highlighted the significance of the event, saying, “We are here with the Uganda Youth Forum and the Uganda Christian Lawyers Fraternity to equip the participants with knowledge about national projects and foster patriotism and pan-Africanism.” Our goal is to ensure these youth leave with a deeper understanding of Uganda’s role in the East African Community and a shared commitment to the country’s vision.”
A recurring theme throughout the convention is the emphasis on positive mindset change, patriotism, and personal responsibility. Participants will engage in sessions designed to counter negative influences, including materialism and entitlement.
The participants will also receive an introduction to Kiswahili, East Africa’s commonly spoken language, which is increasingly becoming a unifying factor across the region. According to Col. Seruga, “We ensure that every participant leaves NALI with some knowledge of Kiswahili, as it is a key factor in promoting East African unity.”
As co-organisers, UCLF is contributing by promoting justice and human dignity. They aim to introduce participants to legal and social frameworks that empower them to advocate for justice in their respective communities.
Martin Sabiiti, CEO of UCLF, expressed his enthusiasm for the event, stating, “Through this partnership between the Uganda Youth Forum and the Uganda Christian Lawyers Fraternity, we aim to transform the lives of our youth and instill in them the values of patriotism and character development. This is our 7th convention, and we are confident that the participants will leave here with tools that will positively impact their communities.”
This year’s convention has attracted participants from across various sectors, including university students, young professionals, and members of the Uganda Christian Lawyers Fraternity. Noteworthy speakers who will address the gathering include the Attorney General Kiryowa Kiwanuka, Justice Mike Chibita, Mrs. Irene Kauma, PPS, Office of the First Lady, and many others.
In a keynote address to open the convention, the speakers emphasised the need for youth to actively participate in shaping Uganda’s future. “This convention is an opportunity for young leaders to engage with seasoned professionals and leave equipped to drive positive change in their communities,” said Col. Serugo.
The National Youth Convention, conceived by First Lady Mama Janet Museveni, is a platform designed to groom future leaders through capacity-building activities. The retreat provides an opportunity for youth to discuss and address contemporary challenges, including economic development and leadership in a changing global context.
“By the end of the retreat, I believe all participants will have their expectations met. The program is designed to challenge them and broaden their understanding of leadership and national service,” remarked a spokesperson from the Uganda Youth Forum.
As the convention unfolds over the next ten days, the participants will engage in a wide range of activities, including workshops, lectures, and discussions that will challenge them to rethink their role in Uganda’s development. The emphasis on patriotism, pan-Africanism, and unity will also provide a strong foundation for building a national identity among the young leaders.
Colonel Seruga captured the event’s spirit in his remarks, “We will never scale down our efforts in promoting patriotism and pan-Africanism.” It’s our mission to help the youth see where Uganda is heading in terms of vision and socio-economic transformation.”
The 7th National Youth Convention promises to be a pivotal event, shaping the next generation of Ugandan leaders to meet the challenges of the future.
