Masiga rallies learners on morality and culture
“With culture, one never goes astray,” he told the students. “Culture is a moral compass and a unifying tool for society.”
Mbale: Learners across Masaabaland have been urged to uphold cultural values and moral discipline as a pathway to a better future. This call was made by Steven Masiga, the spokesperson of the Bamasaaba Cultural Institution, during a visit to Nakaloke Senior Secondary School early this week.
Located approximately 10 kilometers from Mbale City along the Kumi–Soroti road, Nakaloke SSS hosted the cultural leader as part of an ongoing initiative aimed at reawakening cultural pride and instilling discipline among youth in Bugisu sub-region.
Masiga urged students to submit to Bamasaaba cultural values, stressing that culture plays a crucial role in guiding young people towards responsible behavior and a purposeful life.
“With culture, one never goes astray,” he told the students. “Culture is a moral compass and a unifying tool for society.”
In his remarks, Masiga took a firm stance against early marriages, especially among young girls in some Muslim families. While acknowledging that Islamic law permits early marriage in certain contexts, he stressed that such practices should be re-evaluated to ensure girls are allowed to complete their education.
“Even if sanctioned by religion, marrying off a 10-year-old because she’s jumpy is not acceptable in today’s world. Let our girls finish school first,” he said, adding that the Bamasaaba cultural institution is uncomfortable with the practice and advocates for education before marriage.
Masiga also cautioned students against engaging in criminal acts, drug abuse, gangism, and habitual late coming, among other behavioral concerns.
He warned parents who neglect their responsibilities, stating that under Sections 200 and 201 of the Penal Code, failure to provide basic needs for school-going children is a punishable offense.
In a controversial but symbolic proposal, Masiga said the cultural institution might in future consider issuing “virginity certificates” to girls who protect their chastity until university graduation, as a way to encourage morality and cultural pride.
Madam Nankya Masitula, Headmistress of Nakaloke SSS, welcomed the cultural delegation and praised the initiative for its role in shaping the moral compass of learners across Masaabaland.
She made a bold pledge, announcing a UGX 1 million reward to any girl who preserves her virginity until marriage, underscoring the school’s support for the cultural institution’s values.
“We are not only educating the mind but also shaping character. These talks are critical for moral development,” she said.
Student leaders petitioned the Bamasaaba cultural institution to consider establishing “Ekisati” — a youth cultural mentorship program similar to what Buganda Kingdom offers — to foster early mentorship and identity development among Bamasaaba children.
In closing, the East African Anthem, Ugandan National Anthem, and the Bamasaaba Cultural Anthem were sung in unison to mark the importance of cultural integration in education.
Masiga announced that preparations are underway for a National Youth Talk with His Highness the Umukuka of the Bamasaaba, Jude Mike Mudoma, who will engage with students across Masaabaland on matters of education, culture, discipline, and development. The date for this event will be communicated through the office of the spokesperson.
“We want every school in Masaabaland to prepare for this grand youth interaction with our cultural leader,” Masiga said.
Mr. Steven Masiga (in a red tie), spokesperson of the Bamasaaba Cultural Institution, poses with Nakaloke SSS Headmistress Madam Nankya Masitula and student leaders in the school compound after the cultural session.
Do you have an advertisement or article you want to publish? Mail us at theugreports@gmail.com or WhatsApp +256757022363.
