The Minister for Lands, Housing and Urban Development and Woman Member of Parliament for Mityana District Judith Nabakooba has urged schoolgirls to draw inspiration from some of the world’s most accomplished women leaders, saying determination, discipline and education can help them achieve their dreams.
Nabakooba made the remarks while officiating at the Inter-House Cultural Competitions at St. Elizabeth Girls’ Secondary School in Mityana over the weekend, where she encouraged students to believe in their abilities and prepare themselves for leadership roles.
“Never allow anyone to tell you that your dreams are too big. With education, discipline, faith and hard work, there is no limit to what you can achieve,” Nabakooba said.
She commended the school administration for naming its four houses after internationally recognised women whose achievements continue to inspire generations.
The houses are named after former German Chancellor Angela Merkel, former Liberian President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, American media entrepreneur Oprah Winfrey and American civil rights activist Rosa Parks.
“I was pleased to learn that the four houses are named after outstanding women who have changed the world through leadership and courage,” Nabakooba said.
She encouraged the students to embrace the resilience, courage and leadership qualities demonstrated by the four women, saying such values would empower them to become agents of change in their communities and beyond.
The colourful competitions featured poetry, traditional songs and dances, cultural dressing, preparation of local dishes and other activities aimed at promoting cultural heritage and nurturing students’ talents.
Students showcased creativity, teamwork and confidence through performances highlighting the importance of preserving culture as a source of identity, history and national pride.
The school’s Executive Director, Sylvia Namabidde, said the institution deliberately chose the names of the four women to provide students with role models whose lives demonstrate resilience, excellence and service.
Namabidde said many students have admired Nabakooba since her time in the Uganda Police Force and continue to view her as a symbol of determination and hard work.
“You are a good example of a resilient leader whose actions have been felt and seen. When I asked the girls who they wanted to invite as the chief guest for this function, they all mentioned your name,” she said.
She added that her vision is to transform St. Elizabeth Girls’ Secondary School into an internationally recognised institution that produces disciplined, competent and influential young women capable of excelling in Uganda and abroad.
Headteacher Diana Kasumba said the school, which has operated for the past 16 years, has grown to an enrolment of 750 students.
She revealed that the school plans to construct a multi-storey building to create additional learning space and provide a better environment for students.
Teacher and national adjudicator Kevin Kyeswa rewarded outstanding performers and guided participants on improving their cultural presentations. He encouraged students to remain authentic by observing proper cultural practices in dressing, language, food preparation and overall presentation.
The event concluded with the presentation of an award to Nabakooba in recognition of her leadership and service as Woman Member of Parliament for Mityana District and Minister for Lands, Housing and Urban Development.
Outstanding students received mattresses, bedsheets, blankets and certificates, while teaching and non-teaching staff were also recognised for their commitment and service to the school.