Students of Buryansungwe Secondary School in Kicheche Sub-county, Kitagwenda District have been urged to become ambassadors of integrity and take the lead in fighting corruption, with leaders emphasizing that the battle against graft begins with the young generation.
The call was made by the Commissioner of the Tax Academy at the Uganda Revenue Authority (URA), John Tinka Katungwensi, during the school's celebration of the Feast of St. Anne and St. Joachim on Saturday.
Addressing students, Katungwensi expressed concern over increasing corruption and moral decline in society, attributing the problem to a lack of integrity, discipline and strong values.
"Corruption thrives where integrity is absent. As young people, you have the opportunity to build a different Uganda by choosing honesty, discipline and accountability in everything you do. The fight against corruption starts with you," Katungwensi said.
He urged learners to live within their means and uphold integrity in school, church and their communities.
"Never be tempted to acquire wealth through dishonest means. Live within your means and let integrity define your character because that is the foundation of responsible leadership," he added.
Katungwensi also cautioned students against the misuse of social media, encouraging them to use digital platforms responsibly and consume content that promotes learning and personal growth.
"Technology is a powerful tool when used wisely. Choose information that builds your knowledge and character, and avoid content that misleads or destroys your future," he said.
The celebrations featured a fundraising drive to support the construction of the school's perimeter wall and the installation of Closed-Circuit Television (CCTV) cameras to strengthen the security of learners, staff and school property.
Kitagwenda District Woman Member of Parliament Robert Mugabe, who attended the function, commended the school's director, Bishop Francis Aquirinus Kibira, for expanding access to quality education in the area.
"Buryansungwe Secondary School has become a centre of academic excellence because of visionary leadership. Investing in education is investing in the future of Kitagwenda and Uganda at large," Mugabe said.
The school's head teacher, Sr. Independence Ayebare, thanked parents, well-wishers and development partners for their continued support, saying their contributions had played a key role in the school's growth.
"We are grateful to our parents, friends and all our partners for standing with us. Your support has enabled us to grow, and today's fundraising will further strengthen the security of our learners and school community," Sr. Ayebare said.
The annual St. Anne and St. Joachim celebrations brought together religious leaders, political leaders, parents, alumni and members of the community for a thanksgiving event that highlighted both spiritual formation and the continued development of Buryansungwe Secondary School.
