As Kabale gears up to host the national World Environment Day celebrations on Wednesday, June 25th, at Kigezi High School Primary playground, the district has held a series of competitions in preparation for the event.
The two-day inter-school contests, featuring debate, music, and drama aimed at raising environmental awareness among young learners, were held at the National Teachers College in Kabale Municipality.
A total of 14 schools participated, with the top three performers earning a chance to present educative drama during the national celebrations, expected to be graced by President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni and guests from across the world.
In the drama category, Bishop Asil Memorial Nursery and Primary School emerged victorious with an impressive 320 points. Kabale Primary School came in second with 313 points, followed closely by Kigezi High School Primary with 312 points. Canan Primary School rounded off the competition with 179 points.
Music adjudicator Peter Ampurire commended all participating schools for their creative and impactful performances, which delivered strong messages on environmental protection. He emphasized that such initiatives are key to inspiring young people to value and protect their natural surroundings.
In the debate competition, which featured ten selected schools, Kigezi High School emerged as the overall winner. Trinity College secured second place, while St. Mary’s College Rushoroza came third.
According to Moses Bwengye, the acting District Education Officer, the debate category was reserved for secondary schools, while music and drama were focused on primary-level learners.
Bwengye highlighted the significance of these activities in sensitizing youth about the threats posed by plastic pollution and improper waste disposal. He underscored the need for continuous public education to tackle environmental degradation.
Speaking as the chief guest at the event, the Assistant Resident District Commissioner (RDC), Chris Turyomurugyendo, officially confirmed that President Museveni will attend the national celebrations in Kabale.
“Our President is widely recognized as a champion for environmental conservation, particularly wetlands. He has consistently encouraged communities to relocate from fragile ecosystems to highland areas. We expect him to deliver a powerful message to thousands of Ugandans during the celebration,” Turyomurugyendo said.
He expressed pride in Kabale District’s role as host for this important national event and urged the public to turn up in large numbers to hear the President’s address.
The Headmistress of Bishop Asil Memorial Nursery and Primary School, the winning school in the drama competition, Sister Margret Tusiime, expressed joy and gratitude over the recognition.
She attributed the victory to the school’s dedication to academic and artistic excellence and thanked the government and Ministry of Education for their support in nurturing young talent.
The upcoming World Environment Day celebration is expected to draw over 5,000 participants and will feature a range of activities focused on promoting environmental stewardship and sustainable living.
