Young professionals undertaking internships in Wakiso District have been urged to become ambassadors of human rights and accountability to help strengthen public institutions and improve service delivery across communities.
The call was made during a human rights orientation organised by the Wakiso District Human Rights Committee. The training sought to equip interns with knowledge of human rights principles, the protection of human rights defenders, and the practical skills needed to promote justice, equity and accountability in their future careers.
Speaking during the orientation, Wakiso District LC V Chairperson, Eng. Ian Kyeyune, commended the District Human Rights Committee, led by Elly Kasirye, for taking the initiative to educate young professionals on their responsibility to safeguard human rights.
“My biggest concern is equity. It is my mandate to promote human rights, and I placed it as number two in my manifesto,” Kyeyune said.
He reaffirmed the district's commitment to fighting corruption in public service, saying the leadership remains focused on implementing President Yoweri Museveni's directive of promoting transparency and accountability in the delivery of government services.
Chairperson of the Wakiso District Human Rights Committee, Elly Kasirye, said interns were deliberately targeted because they represent the next generation of public servants and community leaders who will shape the future of governance and service delivery.
“Equipping young professionals with a strong understanding of human rights will help build accountable public institutions and advance communities where the dignity and rights of every person are respected and protected,” Kasirye said.
Kasirye emphasised that every individual is entitled to fundamental rights, including the right to education, freedom of religion, freedom of expression and access to basic services, adding that these rights must be protected without discrimination.
He also highlighted key human rights principles, including equality, universality, inclusivity, human dignity, the rule of law, transparency, accountability and public participation, saying these values are essential for effective governance and sustainable development.
Facilitators from the Centre for Health, Human Rights and Development (CEHURD) underscored the close relationship between human rights and access to quality public services, including healthcare, clean water, education and social protection.
They encouraged citizens to demand quality public services as constitutional rights rather than depend solely on charity or goodwill.
The facilitators also placed special emphasis on the rights of women and girls, noting that many continue to face economic, cultural, physical, digital and political barriers that limit their access to opportunities and essential services.
Interns were encouraged to identify and report service delivery gaps, challenge discriminatory practices and promote rights-based approaches within their workplaces and communities.
They were reminded that sustainable development can only be achieved through respect for human rights, accountability, transparency and adherence to the rule of law.
The orientation is expected to equip the interns with practical knowledge and skills to uphold human rights, strengthen accountability and contribute to more equitable, inclusive and citizen-centred public service delivery across Wakiso District.
