HOIMA CITY – CNOOC Uganda Limited has hosted its 2026 Best Performers Awards, reaffirming its long-standing commitment to advancing education and recognizing academic excellence in the Kingfisher Development Area. The awards target learners from Hoima City, Hoima District, and Kikuube District.
Held in Hoima City, the ceremony brought together key leaders and stakeholders, including city and district officials, education authorities, representatives from the Petroleum Authority of Uganda, and joint venture partners TotalEnergies and UNOC.
This year’s program will reward 300 top-performing students selected from more than 40 schools across the three districts. A total of UGX 73,050,000 has been set aside for the awards, with funds distributed based on academic performance and education level. The selection process was carried out in collaboration with District Education Offices to ensure fairness and credibility.
The initiative builds on the success of the 2025 awards, which also recognized 300 outstanding candidates from national examinations (PLE, UCE, and UACE). Beyond financial support, the program aims to motivate learners to pursue higher academic goals. It also maintains an inclusive approach, giving special consideration to students from host communities such as Buhuka Parish and sub-counties including Kyangwali, Kabwoya, Kabaale, and Buseruka, as well as learners with disabilities.
Now in its 13th year, the Best Performers Awards Program has become a cornerstone education initiative in the region. Since its launch in 2013, it has supported 1,448 students and contributed to a significant improvement in school performance. With the addition of recent beneficiaries, the total number of supported learners has risen to 1,748, highlighting the program’s growing influence.
The initiative aligns with CNOOC Uganda’s broader vision of “Energy for a Better Future” and its focus on talent development through investment in human capital. It complements other education programs, including international scholarships for students from the Albertine region and vocational training initiatives that prepare young people with practical job skills.
Speaking at the event, Vice President Wang Jufeng noted that the awards go beyond recognizing academic success—they are designed to inspire ambition and open opportunities for Uganda’s next generation. He emphasized that the beneficiaries represent future contributors to national development across sectors, including oil and gas.
In addition to education, CNOOC Uganda continues to invest in community development through various Corporate Social Responsibility initiatives. These include medical camps that have provided free healthcare to over 4,000 residents, support for sports through the CNOOC–Bunyoro Kitara Amasaza Cup, and infrastructure projects like the Buhuka Gravity Water Scheme.
Other interventions include support for schools and health facilities, sanitation campaigns, road safety awareness, and vocational training programs targeting youth and women. More than 1,000 young people have gained employable skills through training in areas such as welding, heavy vehicle operation, and internationally certified courses.
Hoima City Lord Mayor Brian Kaboyo, who officiated as chief guest, commended the company for its continued partnership and contributions, particularly in improving education and health services in the region.
CNOOC Uganda congratulated all award recipients and participating schools, especially those that have consistently excelled, and reaffirmed its commitment to working with government and communities to drive sustainable development through education.
