By Ceasar Okello Lira 26th/July/2026
The Vice President of Uganda Maj. (Rtd.) Jessica Alupo has urged Ugandans serving in various leadership and professional capacities to embrace a results-oriented work culture that delivers tangible transformation in communities, institutions, and the education sector.
Alupo made the remarks on Saturday while presiding over the 70th Ntare School Day celebrations in Mbarara City, where the institution recognized outstanding former students for their exceptional contributions to national development and the growth of the school.
During the celebrations, the Vice President presented the prestigious Order of the Lion Award to distinguished old boys in recognition of their exemplary service to the country and their continued support for Ntare School.
The award, regarded as one of the highest honours bestowed by the institution, had previously been conferred on only three eminent statesmen: President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, President Paul Kagame of Rwanda , and the late Rt. Hon. Eriya Kategaya, Uganda’s former First Deputy Prime Minister.
On Sunday, Ntare School further honoured three prominent alumni: Prof. Ephraim Kamuntu, former Minister of Internal Affairs; Maj. (Rtd.) Pollar Awich, Director for External Affairs at the NRM Secretariat; and Prof. Charles Kwesiga, Executive Director of the Uganda Industrial Research Institute (UIRI).
While presenting the awards, Vice President Alupo commended Maj. (Rtd.) Polla Awich for his outstanding commitment to public service, community development, and his unwavering support for Ntare School.
“You deserve this recognition as one of the outstanding old boys of this institution. I have followed your work over the years and your contribution to society has been remarkable,” Alupo said.
She challenged Ugandans to emulate the values of selflessness, integrity, and patriotism, emphasizing that sustainable national development can only be achieved through dedicated service and measurable results.
In his acceptance remarks, Maj. (Rtd.) Polla Awich thanked the school for the recognition and called upon Ugandans, particularly the youth, to embrace hard work, discipline, and education as key drivers of national transformation.
He noted that old students’ associations play a critical role in mentoring younger generations by providing guidance, inspiration, and practical examples of success.
Awich reaffirmed his commitment to serving Uganda through initiatives that promote education, socio-economic development, infrastructure growth, and academic excellence.
He said his passion for contributing to the country’s progress remains unwavering and pledged to continue supporting programmes that uplift communities and empower future generations.