Janet Museveni urges youth to Prioritise Patriotism at the 7th Annual Youth Convention

The Minister of Education and Sports, Hon. Janet Kataaha Museveni, has called on Uganda's youth to embrace patriotism and devote their energy to developing the country rather than seeking opportunities abroad.

Speaking at the 7th Annual Youth Convention, organized by the Uganda Youth Forum and the Uganda Christian Lawyers Fraternity at the National Leadership Institute, the Minister emphasized the importance of loyalty and commitment to the nation.

In her address,  Museveni remarked, “Uganda is a beautiful country, and for each one of us, God has chosen to give us the honor of calling Uganda our home! Therefore, we should serve our nation as good stewards of the resources He has entrusted to us.”

She highlighted the theme of the convention, “Staying Loyal and Steadfast to Self and Nation,” which draws from 1 Corinthians 15:58, urging the youth to stand firm and give themselves fully to their work for both God and their country.

The Minister expressed concern over the rising trend of labor migration among Ugandan youth, who often face exploitation and abuse in foreign countries.

“Many young people, in search of what they see as a better future, are taken into modern slavery in nations that devalue and dehumanise them, while robbing them of their dignity,” she stated.

Museveni urged the youth to remain in Uganda, leveraging their skills and potential to contribute to the country's socio-economic development.

In her passionate call for patriotism, she compared Uganda’s challenges to those faced by other nations and encouraged the youth to dedicate themselves to the hard work of nation-building.

“The countries we admire were built by their citizens, who were willing to do everything to build their countries one brick at a time. Our own homeland deserves no less determination,” she said.

The Minister also referenced the biblical story of David and Goliath, drawing parallels between the challenges faced by Uganda and the giants every generation must overcome. “Uganda is waiting for the manifestation of its Davids, who are willing to fight and roll away the reproach of our nation,” she added.

Museveni praised government initiatives like the Parish Development Model, which provide resources for youth to gain practical skills and start businesses.

She urged young people to embrace such programs instead of seeking opportunities abroad. “I caution Uganda’s youth, that leaving the country to face untold suffering and challenges in foreign lands is a formula for disaster,” she said, highlighting the psychological consequences faced by those who return after difficult experiences abroad.

The Minister underscored the value of service, citing both biblical and personal examples of individuals who rose to leadership by first serving faithfully in smaller roles.

She recalled a personal story of a Ugandan doctor who refused to work in a rural health center, contrasting him with a Canadian doctor who was willing to serve in the same facility.

“Life has no shortcuts,” she advised the youth, “You must learn to serve faithfully at whatever you do, if God is going to use you at a national level.”

Conclusion and Gratitude

Museveni concluded her address by thanking the Uganda Christian Lawyers Fraternity, the Uganda Youth Forum, and the staff of the National Leadership Institute for organizing the convention. “Patriotism calls for sacrifice, it is not just words,” she noted, expressing her gratitude to all those involved in nurturing Uganda’s future leaders.

She officially declared the 7th Annual Youth Convention open, encouraging the youth to be steadfast in their dedication to both personal growth and national development.