Written By | BK Mugizi
Brig Gen Bagonza said the scouting movement continues to play a vital role in shaping future leaders by equipping young people with values, practical skills and a spirit of service
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MASAKA
The Deputy Commander of the Armoured Division, Brigadier General Wilson Bagonza, has praised the Uganda Scouts Association for nurturing a generation of disciplined, patriotic and responsible young people capable of contributing to Uganda's development.
Speaking at the closing ceremony of a four-day scouting camp in Greater Masaka, Brig Gen Bagonza said the scouting movement continues to play a vital role in shaping future leaders by equipping young people with values, practical skills and a spirit of service.
The four-day camp, organised by the Uganda Scouts Association, attracted more than 1,000 pupils from various primary and secondary schools across the Greater Masaka region.
Representing the Commander of the Armoured Division, Brig Gen Bagonza thanked the President of Uganda and Patron of the Uganda Scouts Association, Gen. Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, for his continued support and guidance towards the growth of scouting in the country.
"Scouting is one of the most effective platforms for moulding young people into disciplined, patriotic and responsible citizens. It instils values that remain relevant throughout one's life," Brig Gen Bagonza said.
He noted that scouting equips learners with practical life skills, including self-reliance, teamwork, leadership, patriotism and survival skills, which are essential for personal growth and national development.
"The values you have learnt during this camp should guide you throughout your lives. Be disciplined, love your country, work hard and always be ready to serve your communities," he told the pupils.
Brig Gen Bagonza further observed that many distinguished leaders serving in government and other public institutions started their leadership journey through the scouting movement.
"Many of the leaders you admire today once wore the scout uniform. This shows that scouting builds a strong foundation for future leadership," he said.
Brigadier Gen. Bagonza during the closure of the ceremony yesterday
Scouts Association Applauds Government Support
The Chairperson of the Uganda Scouts Association, Patrick Sseno, commended President Museveni for his unwavering support for scouting, saying the movement continues to expand because of the government's commitment.
"We appreciate the President for consistently supporting the Uganda Scouts Association. His encouragement has enabled us to continue mentoring young Ugandans into responsible citizens," Sseno said.
He also thanked the Armoured Division for providing security and logistical support, which ensured that the camp was conducted successfully.
"We are equally grateful to the Uganda People's Defence Forces, particularly the Armoured Division, for ensuring a safe and successful camp," he added.
Sseno further praised the participating schools, teachers and pupils for their discipline, commitment and active participation throughout the four-day event.
"The discipline displayed by both the learners and their teachers is a clear indication that the future of our country is in safe hands," he said.
Leaders Witness Successful Camp
The closing ceremony was attended by the Masaka District LC V Chairperson, the Kalungu District Education Officer, officials from the Uganda Scouts Association, teachers, parents, and pupils from the participating schools.
