The Archdiocese of Gulu has on November 13, 2023, commenced with an Education Week and fundraising to be concluded on November 18, 2023, at Kaunda Grounds and St. Monica in Gulu, with the central theme of Re-awakening and Repositioning the Church and Other Stakeholders to Transform Education in Acholi Sub Region, which sets the stage for a series of activities aimed at revitalizing the education sector and to help vulnerable children in secondary and tertiary institutions complete their studies.
The event features a diverse of activities, including exhibitions by various schools and public lectures addressing strategies to enhance education in the Acholi sub region.
While addressing the gathering, His Grace Dr. John Baptist Odama, the Archbishop of Gulu Archdiocese expressed gratitude for the collaborative effort in organizing the event, recognizing education as a vital necessity and the church’s responsibility to foster its development in the region.
Acknowledging the impact of past turmoil on education, the Archbishop emphasized the critical role of education in shaping morality, social and economic standards, and unity.
Highlighting the current disparities in educational standards, His Grace called upon the government to support education in the Acholi sub region, emphasizing its role in development and improving humanity and unity in the region.
Richard Twodong, the Secretary-General of NRM who was the Guest of Honor officially launched the Education Week and associated fundraising activities.
He commended the church for its dedication to supporting and advocating for education in the Acholi sub region, echoing the importance of unity and humanity to reflect the goodness of God.
Noteworthy attendees included government officials and religious leaders, Lt Col Emmy Katabazi, the Deputy Director General of Internal Security Organization (ISO), Rosemary Sseninde, the Director Mobilization and Recruitment of NRM, and Executive Secretary of the Education Department at the Uganda Episcopal Conference, Rev. Fr. Ronald Okello, among others.
As the week unfolds, the Archdiocese of Gulu seeks to create a platform for dialogue, collaboration, and fundraising to address the educational challenges faced by the Acholi subregion. The focus on re-awakening and repositioning the church and other stakeholders confirms a commitment to transformative change and the holistic development of the community.