Schools have been encouraged to embrace acceptable cultural practices as part of co-curricular activities to help learners preserve their heritage, build confidence, nurture creativity and acquire essential life skills beyond classroom learning.
Leaders noted that cultural activities are particularly important in refugee-hosting districts such as Adjumani, where communities from different nationalities and cultural backgrounds live together. They said schools can use such programmes to promote peaceful coexistence, tolerance and appreciation of diversity.
Adjumani Town Council LCIII Chairperson Lawrence Mangapi pledged continued support for cultural activities in schools across the district.
"Our council will continue supporting acceptable cultural practices in schools because they preserve our heritage, promote unity and help young people appreciate their identity while respecting others," Mangapi said.
The remarks were made on Monday during celebrations to mark the Feast of Saints Peter and Paul at St. Peter's Nursery and Primary School in Adjumani Town Council. Pupils entertained guests through cultural dances, drama, poetry, storytelling and music under the theme: "Celebrating St. Peter's Legacy of Faith and Leadership Through Creativity."
School administrators said the annual celebration strengthens learners' spiritual growth while encouraging them to emulate the faith, courage and leadership demonstrated by Saints Peter and Paul.
Head Teacher Zakary Iwama Ojara said co-curricular activities complement classroom learning by helping identify talents and strengthening learners' character.
"Cultural dances, folktales, poems and drama help preserve our traditions, promote unity among learners from different backgrounds and nurture talents that may not easily be discovered in the classroom. Education is not only about passing examinations but also about developing responsible and creative citizens," Ojara said.
The Parish Priest of Adjumani Catholic Parish, Fr. Toxton Ciriako Ajiga, who presided over the Holy Mass, challenged Christians to emulate the lives of Saints Peter and Paul through faith, commitment and hard work.
"The lives of Saints Peter and Paul remind us that faith must be accompanied by hard work, sacrifice and service to others. Let us emulate their example in our daily lives," Fr. Ajiga said.
Speaking during the celebrations, Adjumani Chief Administrative Officer Andrew Ocen James reaffirmed the government's commitment to working closely with private schools to improve education standards.
"Government will continue collaborating with private schools because they complement public education by expanding access and improving the quality of learning for our children," Ocen said.
Assistant Resident District Commissioner Simon Peter Obumai urged schools to embrace holistic education that develops learners academically, socially and morally.
"Education should not only focus on academics but also on developing the talents, values and practical skills of learners through different activities. Such programmes prepare children to become responsible and productive citizens," Obumai said.
He added that government would continue supporting private education providers to deliver competitive education services and help decongest government schools.
The Feast of Saints Peter and Paul is celebrated globally every June 29 in honour of the two apostles for their contribution to spreading Christianity and their enduring legacy of faith, sacrifice and service.
Parents and guests applauded the colourful performances, saying such celebrations not only preserve culture but also build confidence, teamwork, discipline and leadership among learners while strengthening unity in one of Uganda's largest refugee-hosting districts.