Col. Edith Nakalema, Head of the State House Investors Protection Unit (SHIPU), recently met with the leadership of Muteesa I Royal University Students Guild to discuss key issues affecting the country’s socio-economic transformation.
The meeting, held at the SHIPU offices in Kampala, emphasized the crucial role student leaders play in shaping the country’s future.
“You are key investors in academics,” Col. Nakalema said. “We need your minds to ensure that our country continues to thrive economically.”
She urged the student leaders to prioritize integrity in their leadership, saying, “You are the present and future leaders of our country. When you are focusing on justice, empowerment, and enlightenment, also think about integrity.”
Col. Nakalema stressed the importance of leading by example, saying, “We want you to lead with integrity; lead by example. Don’t talk about integrity when you, yourself, are lacking.”
She also encouraged the student leaders to be productive and job creators, rather than job seekers, in order to combat unemployment.
“Google what is productive and what adds value to you,” Col. Nakalema advised. “Don’t get involved in negative talks.”
Col. Nakalema rallied the student leaders to join the fight against corruption, sharing her personal commitment to the cause.
“The anti-corruption fight has been my calling since my youthful days,” she said. “Today I’m a very determined officer, and I chose to serve God and my country at all costs.”
The Guild President, Mr. Kirabira Simon Richmon, thanked Col. Nakalema for engaging with them and assured her that the student guild is committed to joining hands with the government to fight corruption.
Mr. Kirabira noted that some youths are being misled by selfish individuals, leading to opposition and criticism of the government.
In response, the student guild has organized a symposium to promote mindset change, awareness, and harmony between youths and public officials.
“This symposium aims to engage young Ugandans from different tertiary, technical, and vocational institutions in meaningful discussions about justice, integrity, and their roles in shaping the country’s future,” Mr. Kirabira explained.
