Adhering to the mission of Blessed Basil Moreau, Holy Cross educational institutions seek to educate both the minds and hearts of their students, forming them to be full citizens on earth and in Heaven. As a way to form its students for local citizenship, Holy Cross Lake View Senior Secondary School in Jinja Wanyange–Musiima, Uganda, recently held a week-long patriotism training program, which ran from May 26th to June 2nd, 2025.
The training provided form 1 and 5 students with an education in Ugandan history, highlighting events of importance and prominent figures. Students discussed national pride, unity, and personal responsibility, as well as the current challenges their country faces today. They also celebrated their heritage by donning patriotic outfits, and learning patriotic songs.
At the end of the week, a formal event was held to mark the students’ completion of the program on June 2nd. Known as a “pass-out” ceremony, the event was reminiscent of ceremonies done to mark the graduation of military personnel.
Mr. Richard Gulume Balyaino, Resident City Commissioner of Jinja City, attended the ceremony as its guest of honor. According to the school, “Mr. Gulume encouraged students to apply the knowledge and skills gained from the training to become responsible citizens… He emphasized the importance of patriotism in instilling discipline and direction in life. He congratulated the students for persevering in the week’s training and appealed to them to remain focused on their education.” Finally, he declared the students as “full cadets.”
According to the school’s website, “The government of Uganda launched patriotism clubs in schools in 2009 to instill norms and values among youth and students. The Ministry of Education and Sports sees patriotism as a pillar of character education, aligning with Uganda Vision 2040 [which seeks to create ‘A Transformed Ugandan Society from a Peasant to a Modern and Prosperous Country within 30 years,’ according to its official documentation]. By participating in this patriotism training program, Holy Cross Lake View SSS aims to shape its students into responsible, engaged, and patriotic citizens who will contribute to the development and prosperity of Uganda.”
Article modified by Paula Lent, Mission Center Office Coordinator
July 2025
