Candidates preparing to sit for their final exams this year have been urged to avoid reckless behavior during the holidays. The call came from the State Minister for Fisheries and founding director of Halcyon Schools during a ceremony on Saturday, where 60 students were confirmed and 2024 UCE and UACE candidates were blessed by the Bishop of the Church of Uganda, Soroti Diocese, His Lordship Kosea Odongo.
According to Hon. Adoa, students should return home and assist their parents with productive work that can generate household income for their future education. She cautioned them against joining criminal groups such as the Owokiwoks and Ikok, which have been terrorizing the community by stealing property and causing harm.
Adoa also advised candidates to steer clear of early sexual relationships and marriages, which could lead to contracting the deadly HIV/AIDS virus and producing children they cannot support, thereby burdening their parents. She encouraged students to remain calm during exams, follow the rules and regulations, and relax their minds.
The head teacher of Halcyon High School, Paul Mark Onyait, confirmed that a total of 487 candidates are registered for UCE and 180 for UACE. Richard Omusei, the resident representative of Halcyon High School, expressed gratitude to parents for choosing the school as a place for their children to receive quality education.
During the event, Hon. Minister Adoa and Omusei rewarded 11 students with cash prizes totaling 500,000 UGX for their commitment to studying at Halcyon from senior one to senior six. The minister awarded 500,000 UGX to each student, while Omusei contributed 100,000 UGX each.
Additionally, the Resident District Commissioner of Soroti, Paul Eseru, praised Hon. Minister Adoa for opening a school that complements government efforts in providing educational services to the community.
Meanwhile, Bishop Kosea Odongo, while leading prayers as the main celebrant, encouraged parents in Teso to prioritize education for their children. He emphasized that the greatest gift a parent can offer is education, as it opens doors for the child’s future and can transform society.
