By Haron Okwir
Otuke District Local Government has yesterday Wednesday officially received, verified and recognized six students who secured admission to various public universities under the Government sponsorship scheme, marking another significant milestone in the district’s education sector.
The six students were individually verified as genuine beneficiaries from Otuke District during a recognition ceremony at the District headquarters attended by district leaders, education officials, parents and local leaders.
The beneficiaries are Odongo Edimond, who will pursue a Bachelor of Science with Education (Biological Sciences) at Kyambogo University; Odongo Walter, Bachelor of Science Education (Biological Sciences) at Gulu University; Apili Morish, Bachelor of Statistics at Makerere University; Otim Ivan, Bachelor of Vocational Studies in Agriculture with Education at Kyambogo University; Opaka Innocent, Bachelor of Art and Industrial Design at Kyambogo University; and Alupu Janet, Bachelor of Science in Computer Science at Lira University.
Of the six students, four completed their studies at Okwang Secondary School while two are former students of Adwari Secondary School, highlighting the two schools’ continued excellence in producing students who qualify for Government sponsorship to public universities.
The Chairperson of Headteachers, Mr. Ogwal Charles, advised the students to appreciate their humble backgrounds, live within their means and remain focused on their academic goals.
He also reminded them to value the sacrifices made by their parents and guardians and avoid unnecessary financial pressure.
The Secretary for Education, Hon. Obua Ricky, emphasized the importance of setting clear academic and career goals cautioning them against distractions such as alcoholism, immorality, negative peer influence and low self-esteem, urging them to stay committed to their studies.
He also commended parents for their unwavering support and encouraged them to continue guiding their children throughout their university education.
Addressing the gathering, the Secretary for Community-Based Services, Hon. Adinga Florence, encouraged the only female beneficiary, Alupu Janet, and other young women to remain focused on education rather than being influenced by material possessions or luxurious lifestyles.
She urged them to pursue their dreams with determination and purpose.
The Senior Education Officer, Mr. Ochero Patrick, encouraged the students to associate with disciplined, hardworking and focused colleagues who would positively influence their academic journey.
He further proposed that the district organize a special recognition event to honour the management, teachers and Boards of Governors of Okwang Secondary School and Adwari Secondary School for their consistent outstanding performance in both O-Level and A-Level national examinations.
Mr. Onyek Patrick, Clerk to Council, congratulated the students and challenged them to become role models who inspire other learners across Otuke District to believe that success is attainable through hard work, discipline and determination.
In his remarks, the Chief Administrative Officer, Mr. Echat Moses, urged the students to embrace discipline, innovation and resilience.
He encouraged them to engage in small income-generating activities during holidays, noting that increasing competition for white-collar jobs makes entrepreneurship and creativity essential for future success.
He also applauded parents for investing in education and stressed that excellent academic performance is achieved through the collective efforts of committed parents, dedicated teachers and determined learners, rather than the size or status of a school.
Otuke District Vice Chairperson LCV, Hon. Okello Gasper, urged the students to uphold the good image of Otuke District wherever they study encouraging them to remain disciplined, responsible and exemplary ambassadors of the district throughout their university education.
