In a historic moment for Uganda, His Excellency Yoweri Kaguta Museveni was represented by Vice President Maj. (Rtd) Jessica Alupo Epel at the Kololo Independence Grounds to mark the first-ever national celebration of the International Day of Education.
Speaking at the event, Vice President Maj(Rtd) Jessica Alupo Epel emphasized the government’s commitment to human capital development, with education positioned as a fundamental public good essential for national progress. She applauded the Ministry of Education and Sports for spearheading Uganda’s participation in recognizing this global observance.
“Education is the cornerstone of development,” Vice President Jessica Alupo Epel stated, echoing the longstanding commitment of the National Resistance Movement (NRM) government to prioritize education as a catalyst for societal advancement.
Highlighting the significance of the Universal Primary Education (UPE) program initiated in 1997, Vice President Maj (Rt) Jessica Alupo Epel underscored its role in facilitating access to schooling for children across Uganda, leading to increased literacy rates and the empowerment of youth for meaningful participation in national development endeavors.
She commended the strides made towards gender parity in primary education, attributing it to the government’s efforts in ensuring equal opportunities for all, regardless of gender.
Addressing the beneficiaries of the UPE program directly, the Vice President expressed confidence in their ability to shape the future of Uganda, urging them to leverage their education for the betterment of themselves and their communities.
In line with the government’s commitment to grassroots development, Maj(Rtd) Jessica Alupo Epel announced the implementation of the Parish Development Model, aimed at fostering local-level investment opportunities and harnessing the skills of educated individuals for community advancement.
Furthermore, The Vice President called upon all stakeholders to recognize the transformative power of education in fostering peace and societal harmony. She emphasized the importance of leaving no one behind in the pursuit of education for all, stating, “You can preach peace to an educated soul and have it, but you will not preach peace to a frustrated illiterate and expect peace.”
As the event concluded, participants left inspired by the government’s unwavering dedication to education as a fundamental right and a catalyst for Uganda’s continued progress on the global stage.