The private secretary to the minister of education and sports, Irene Kauma, encouraged student leaders to prioritise finding mentors who can offer guidance, helping them lead exemplary and fulfil their expectations.
Kauma’s message highlights the value of mentorship in unlocking one’s potential with a strong belief that seeking guidance from experienced individuals, student leaders will gain valuable insights, develop their skills, and make informed decisions, which will in turn help them become more effective leaders and make a positive impact in their communities.
“For you to be a full leader, you need a mentor. I am who I am today because I got a mentor who held my hand, gave me an opportunity to learn, relearn, and unlearn”.
“I want to encourage you leaders to gather courage and build relationships, and in that way, you will find yourselves connecting with the people who are online with what you aspire to do.” Noted Kauma
Kauma made the remarks yesterday at Nkumba University when she was delivering a lecture of opportunity to students and leaders drawn from all higher institutions of learning who are undergoing a two-week patriotism training program.
Mrs. Kauma added that mentoring helps individuals to establish a sounding board as well as accepting relationships to look creatively at work and personal issues.
“With mentoring, it helps to learn possible pitfalls ahead of time along with guidance in how to avoid them.”
“It will also help you to receive feedback, increase self-awareness, and help us to maintain personal and professional accountability,” added Mrs. Kauma.
Kauma further advised the student leaders to cultivate a strong faith in God, seeking his guidance and goodness, for he will illuminate their path, providing clarity and direction throughout their leadership journey.
“As a leader, you have a chance to relate to God, for he is a game changer; he heals everything; he creates a purpose within us.”
“Discover your purpose as a leader. What are your aspirations? Is it politics, media, business, family and social services, or education?”
“I want you to know that there is a reason as to why you are in this training, and there is a reason why you are in Uganda, not America.
She further underscored the significance of self-worth, urging the student leaders to strengthen their fundamental beliefs in their inherent value.
She emphasised that they will establish a solid foundation for their lives, enabling them to navigate challenges with confidence and resilience.
The training program, which was organised by the National Secretariat for Patriotism Corps (NSPC) under the stewardship of Commissioner Hellen Seku and State House Uganda, commenced on January 3, 2025, with the aim of equipping student leaders with the necessary leadership skills and knowledge to become informed and patriotic leaders of tomorrow.
The training emphasises the importance of civic responsibility and encourages young leaders to actively participate in building a better future for Uganda.
President Museveni and First Lady and Minister of Education Janet Museveni will officially close the training on January 17.
