UGANDA: Uganda Martyrs University’s Ngetta Campus Cultural Gala Celebrates Cultural Diversity
In the third-left- Education Secretary Lira diocese Rev Sr Agnes Atala -MSMMC flanked by University Officials Ngetta Campus in Lira copy
Oyuu Flavia
In a vibrant display of cultural richness and diversity, the Uganda Martyrs University (UMU) Ngetta Campus, hosted a week-long cultural gala that culminated in an electrifying finale on Friday. The event, held under the theme “Cultural Pluralism: A Must for National Cohesion and Inclusivity,” brought together students, faculty, and staff to celebrate the university’s diverse cultural heritage.
Rev. Sr. Agnes Atala, MSMMC, the Education Secretary for Lira Diocese, graced the occasion as the guest of honor. In her keynote address, she emphasized the significance of cultural diversity, stating, “Culture is what makes us who we are saying this shows that we have fully embraced the holistic education that the Catholic Church in Uganda values so highly.”
She also reminded the students to value the culture of Uganda Martyrs, as an institution that nurtures everyone in integrity, hard work, and excellence in research. “As Uganda Martyrs University, we pride ourselves on the saying, “Work hard; there are no free marks, no cheating, and no imagined marks.’ Therefore, I request that this culture be upheld, as this is where we derive our pride as a church that has a university excelling in every way.”
Rev. Sr. Margate Akello, Dean of Students, praised the leadership of the Uganda Martyrs University Students’ Union for their dedication and hard work. She noted that the university’s student associations play a vital role in promoting unity and cultural diversity, saying, “The purpose of the different Student Associations at the University is for unity, to come together in diversity, allowing all the different cultures to merge as one at UMU.”
The gala featured an array of captivating performances, including traditional dances, folk songs, and showcases of traditional attire. The student associations, each representing a unique cultural group, competed for top honors, with the Karamojong Development Students’ Association emerging as the overall winner.
Dr. Alex Okot, the newly appointed director of UMU Ngetta campus, expressed his enthusiasm for the event, saying, “What I have seen exhibited here has inspired me to work harder. This is the culture of UMU – a university that understands differences, accepts, respects, and appreciates one another.”
Hon. Patrick Olweny Odong, Secretary of Culture and Community Affairs, highlighted the importance of cultural awareness and exchange. He explained that the cultural gala is an annual event showcasing the diverse cultures of Uganda and beyond, promoting national cohesion and inclusivity
The event also crowned Romano Kababa as the Cultural King and Delisha Jerob as the Cultural Queen.
