The Parish Priest of Uganda Martyrs’ Kiwoko Parish, Rev. Fr. John Mary Lukwago, has urged students to reject corruption, theft, and other forms of dishonesty, saying integrity should remain the foundation of their lives both in and outside school. Fr. Lukwago, who also serves as the Education Secretary for Nakaseke District under the Roman Catholic Diocese of Kasana-Luweero, delivered the message during a thanksgiving Mass to mark the 76th anniversary of St. John’s Secondary School, Nandere.
The celebrations, held at the school grounds in Our Lady of Grace Nandere Parish, attracted clergy, education officials, students, parents, alumni, and members of the local community. In his homily, Fr. Lukwago called on learners to emulate the virtues of St. John the Baptist by living lives of humility, honesty, and selflessness. He reminded students that they have a responsibility to honour the sacrifices made by their parents through discipline, hard work, and good conduct.
The priest cautioned learners against engaging in corruption, theft and other dishonest practices, saying such vices undermine personal integrity and destroy future opportunities. He also encouraged students facing academic challenges not to lose hope but to remain focused on their studies, trust in God, and work diligently towards achieving their goals.
Fr. Lukwago described education as a journey of personal transformation and urged learners to avoid distractions that could derail their future, while striving to become responsible citizens and role models in society. He further emphasized punctuality, saying respect for time reflects discipline, responsibility, and integrity.
Headteacher Portase Muhimbise Begumya thanked God for sustaining the school over the past 76 years, noting that it has continued to register steady academic and institutional growth despite numerous challenges. Referring to this year’s anniversary theme, “Unlock Our Potentials,”
Muhimbise said the school remains committed to providing holistic education grounded in Catholic values, with equal emphasis on academic excellence, moral formation, and spiritual growth. He encouraged students to emulate St. John the Baptist by rejecting immoral behaviour and embracing values that prepare them for responsible lives.
Muhimbise also announced that construction of a modern multipurpose building will commence on July 1 after the government allocated Shs350 million towards the project. Board of Governors Chairperson Dr. Charles Muweesi called for accountability and quality workmanship during construction, adding that the board also plans to improve teachers’ accommodation to enhance staff welfare and academic performance.
Luweero District Education Secretary Rev. Fr. Emmanuel Kato Lubega, an alumnus of the school, urged students to take advantage of the opportunities available at St. John’s Secondary School, saying the institution has consistently produced responsible citizens who continue to serve both the Church and the country. The celebrations were marked by thanksgiving prayers, cultural performances, music, and dance by students.
Founded by the Missionaries of Africa (White Fathers), St. John’s Secondary School, Nandere traces its origins to 1949 and officially opened as a junior school in 1950 before becoming a full secondary school in 1967.
Despite suffering severe disruption during the Luweero Triangle conflict, the school has since rebuilt and expanded its academic programmes and infrastructure.Today, the government-aided Catholic school is among the leading secondary schools in Luweero District, offering holistic education guided by its motto, “Toil and Achieve.”-URN. Give us feedback on this story through our email: kamwokyatimes@gmail.com
