Evelyne Ninsiima Kikafunda, Board Member of the International Community of BanyaKigezi (ICOB) Apex and CEO of Live to Inspire Uganda, has called upon students to exercise responsibility, discipline, and faith during their upcoming long holiday and festive season.
Speaking during an inspirational talk at St. Agatha Girls Secondary School Kakore in Rubanda District, Hon. Kikafunda advised learners to remain vigilant, avoid harmful influences such as bad peer groups, alcoholism, disobedience, and fornication, and focus on making positive contributions to their families and communities.
She emphasized the importance of discipline and maintaining a strong moral foundation, especially during extended holiday periods, when students are more susceptible to negative distractions.
“I call upon you to help your parents and caretakers back home, stay away from bad groups, and above all, put God first in everything you do,” she said.
Hon. Kikafunda also raised concerns about students’ exposure to the internet and mobile phones, especially during their adolescent years. She urged parents and guardians to closely monitor and guide the youth in navigating the digital world, warning against the dangers of straying into unproductive or harmful activities.
Kikafunda further noted that the festive season is approaching, and people often engage in unproductive excitement, such as reckless driving and alcoholism. She called upon the youth to remain vigilant and use the long holiday responsibly.
“Festive seasons are often misused for reckless excitement, such as dangerous driving and excessive drinking. I urge the youth to remain vigilant and purposeful throughout the holiday,” she added.
Delivering an additional motivational talk, Horeb Ndyamuhakyi from the Diocese of Kigezi’s Kigezi Anglican Youth Missioners reminded the students that one’s background does not determine their future. He encouraged them to use their youthful years wisely to build a strong foundation for success.
“The youthful age is both tempting and sensitive. Be careful in your choices because they shape your destiny,” he said.
The students and staff of St. Agatha Girls Secondary School Kakore expressed gratitude for the words of encouragement. Patrick Tumwesigye, the Deputy Head Teacher, noted that engagements like this with various stakeholders prepare the girls for the challenges and opportunities during the holiday.
“This session is part of our efforts to equip students with practical life skills and values,” Tumwesigye said.
Hon. Kikafunda’s visit aligns with ICOB Apex’s ongoing support for St. Agatha Girls Secondary School Kakore. This year, the school was selected as the beneficiary of an ICT Center, with ICOB Apex contributing 70% towards its establishment. The project aims to enhance digital literacy and equip students with technological skills critical for the modern world.
This engagement is part of Hon. Kikafunda’s broader efforts through the international Community of BanyaKigezi ICOB Apex to mentor young people and nurture values that contribute to personal growth and community transformation.
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