Permanent Secretary and Secretary to the Judiciary Pius Bigirimana has urged young Ugandans to uphold ethical values alongside academic and professional excellence, warning that leadership without integrity undermines national development.
Speaking to more than 400 university students at the Inter-University Leadership Conference held at the National ICT Hub, Bigirimana said, “Excellence and ethics are not separate ideals; they are two sides of the coin. You cannot do without the others.”
He called on students to cultivate character, discipline, and a clear sense of civic responsibility.
The event, organised by the Female Lawyers Network (FLN) under the theme “Strategic Leadership for Youth: Building Visionary, Innovative, and Impact-driven Leaders for a Sustainable Future,” brought together senior government officials and private-sector partners to mentor young leaders on integrity, professionalism, and national transformation.
Deputy Inspector General of Government Dr. Patricia Achan Okiria urged students to take an active role in combating corruption, stressing that their generation cannot remain silent.
“Stand against corruption, champion transparency, and demand accountability in all aspects of leadership,” she told the participants.
Acting High Court Judge Lady Justice Sarah Lang Siu underscored the importance of education as a pathway to meaningful impact.
“Aim high for education, empowerment to reach the desired position and make meaningful impact,” she said, encouraging students to invest in their personal and professional growth.
The Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) also emphasised youth engagement in building a productive economy.
Assistant Commissioner Akulo Phionah highlighted ongoing efforts to simplify tax compliance for young people, noting that a tax-literate generation is essential for sustainable national development.
Student leaders described the conference as timely and practical. Makerere University’s Tindyebwa Manson said, “I have learnt how to become a good student leader with professionalism and leading with integrity.”
The Inter-University Leadership Conference, supported by MTN MoMo Pay, UCC, URA, Harris International and Newman’s, renewed calls for ethical leadership and active participation of youth in Uganda’s development agenda.