The Ugandan government has announced that all students completing Senior Six this year will undergo patriotism training at the National Leadership Institute (NALI) in Kyankwanzi as part of a revived programme aimed at promoting discipline, national identity and responsibility among young people.
The programme is expected to begin this year, with Senior Six leavers reportedly spending about six months at Kyankwanzi. The announcement was made by Hellen Seku, Commissioner of Uganda’s National Secretariat for Patriotism Corps (NSPC).
In a statement posted on X on October 5, 2026, the Ugandan government said the programme had been revived to help young people develop a stronger sense of patriotism and understand their role in building the country.
It said: “All Senior Six leavers in Uganda will this year undergo patriotism and political education training at the National Leadership Institute in Kyankwanzi, under a revived government programme aimed at promoting discipline, patriotism, a sense of national identity and responsibility among the youth.”
Uganda’s Programme and Rwanda’s Itorero
The objectives announced by Uganda are similar in some respects to those of Rwanda’s National Itorero, particularly in promoting patriotism, instilling values and helping citizens understand their responsibilities in the country’s development.
However, the two programmes have different historical backgrounds. Rwanda’s Itorero has its roots in Rwandan culture. Traditionally, it was an institution where people were taught culture, good conduct and social taboos, while also being trained in bravery, loyalty and collective problem-solving.
The National Itorero was officially reintroduced by President Paul Kagame on November 16, 2007, in the presence of both chambers of Parliament. Rwanda’s Ministry of National Unity and Civic Engagement describes it as a uniquely Rwandan initiative rooted in the country’s culture and aimed at promoting patriotism, responsible leadership, cooperation and other national values.
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What Rwanda’s Itorero Teaches
In Rwanda, Itorero training covers topics including Rwandan cultural values and taboos, the country’s history and the Genocide against the Tutsi, the prevention of genocide ideology, national unity and resilience, as well as the role of families in education and upbringing.
Itorero has also been incorporated into Rwanda’s education system, with the programme extended to primary and secondary schools.
Students who have completed secondary school in Rwanda are among those covered by programmes associated with Itorero.
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Uganda Expands Patriotism Training
Uganda’s renewed programme builds on earlier patriotism training initiatives conducted at Kyankwanzi and elsewhere.
According to recent reports, the NSPC also plans to extend patriotism training to teachers, head teachers, students in higher education and young people working in the informal sector.
The announcement therefore marks a broader push by Uganda to provide patriotism and civic education to young people and other sections of society.
