Nnaabagereka Sylvia Nagginda welcomed by children participating in the Ekisaakaate at Kabojja
Nnaabagereka Sylvia Nagginda officially launched the ‘Ekisaakaate International Schools’ at Kabojja International Schools in Buziga.
On arrival at the school, which is hosting this year’s Ekisaakaate camp, Nnaabagereka was first taken on a tour of various key places, including dormitories and classrooms. She later met with the Ekisaakaate participants, who showcased what they had learned since the camp started on July 3. The children were encouraged to put into practice all the lessons learned, especially to use the internet responsibly and avoid harmful behaviors such as drug abuse.
In her remarks, Nnaabagereka urged parents to teach their children their native languages to help them preserve their culture and heritage from an early age. She thanked the management of Kabojja International for hosting this year’s Ekisaakaate, which brings together children from schools across the country.
“It is important for children to know their languages. It is good for them to learn multiple languages. Even when they study English, parents should guide them to learn other languages, especially their mother tongues,” said Nnaabagereka.
Nnaabagereka with the organizing team at Kabojja
The Buganda Minister for Community Development and Nnaabagereka’s Office Affairs noted that the Ekisaakaate program, now in its 18th year, has greatly contributed to nurturing the children of the nation by instilling discipline and equipping them with practical life skills.
The founder of the school and Deputy Speaker of the Buganda Lukiiko, Hon. Hajji Ahmed Lwasa, expressed his joy at hosting the Ekisaakaate, describing it as a valuable program for preparing the next generation. He encouraged the public to embrace the Ekisaakaate whenever the opportunity arises.
Hon. Fred Kabuye Kalungi from the National Drug Authority, one of the partners providing lessons especially on drug abuse, praised Nnaabagereka for championing programs that empower children with knowledge and values they might not easily acquire through formal classroom education.
During the Ekisaakaate, children are trained in life skills, interpersonal relations, social behavior, and hands-on activities such as baking cakes, bread-making, weaving crafts like mats and baskets, as well as sports including swimming, football, netball, and other games.
This year’s Ekisaakaate, which started on Thursday, July 3, will conclude on Saturday, July 12.