The Commissioner of the National Secretariat for Patriotism Corps (NSPC), Ms. Hellen Seku, has urged young people to uphold moral values, avoid risky behavior, and actively participate in environmental protection.
Speaking while passing out 1,041 students who completed patriotism training at Uganda Technical College Elgon in the Bugisu sub-region, Seku said the patriotism programme emphasizes discipline, responsible living, and traditional family values.
She told the students that the training promotes the importance of family structures, noting that a man is expected to marry a woman as part of societal values taught under the program.
Seku also warned youth against engaging in prostitution and relationships with “sugar daddies,” saying such practices expose them to dangers including HIV/AIDS.
“HIV is a killer and it continues to claim many lives. Young people should take note of this and avoid shortcuts that can destroy their future,” she said.
The commissioner added that today’s social environment presents many moral challenges, urging students to remain disciplined and focused on building their future.
She further reminded the youth of guidance by Yoweri Kaguta Museveni encouraging citizens to create wealth through hard work instead of seeking quick gains through risky activities.
During the same event, Seku planted a tree in Bugisu to promote environmental conservation among young people. She said tree planting helps control soil erosion, reduce extreme heat, and protect the environment.
Seku noted that in 2024, President Museveni launched a national environmental protection campaign, and her visit aimed at reinforcing the same message among the youth.
She also emphasized the broader benefits of trees, saying they support human life and provide medicinal value through herbs and other environmental resources.
The NSPC has been conducting visits to tertiary institutions across the country where students are undergoing patriotism training from March 1 to 9, 2026.