The stage was set at Kiira College Butiki on Friday, July 10. The Platform Uganda hosted the Eastern Edition of the Grand Inter-Schools Contest. This followed the success of the Central Edition held earlier in March.
The event brought together over 150 students. It was a day of fierce competition and brilliant performances.
A Gathering of Great Minds at the Grand Inter-Schools Contest
Thirteen schools participated in the contest. They included Kiira College Butiki, Lakeside College Luzira, and Goodheart SSS. Others were Jinja Progressive Academy, Amus College School, and Victoria High School.
Budini Secondary School, Mother Kevin College, and Kamuli Girls’ College also attended. St. John’s SS Wakitaka completed the list. Additional schools joined for the Essay Writing track. These included Nkoma SS Mbale, Kasambira HS Kamuli, and Musana Vocational HS from Iganga.
The Winners at the Grand Inter-Schools Contest Eastern Edition
The competition featured four main tracks. Each track produced outstanding winners.
Essay Writing: Amus College School from Bukedea emerged victorious:
Poetry: The host school, Kiira College Butiki, took the top spot.
Story Telling: Jinja Progressive Academy won this category.
Public Speaking: Budini SS Kaliro claimed the trophy.
Goodheart SSS Jinja was the runner-up in Essay Writing.
Prizes That Motivate
Students competed hard for attractive rewards. The winners in the Essay Writing track received cash prizes and medals.
The first-place winner took home 150,000 shillings, a plaque, a framed certificate, and a gold medal. The second-place winner got 100,000 shillings, a plaque, and a medal. Third place received 80,000 shillings and a medal.
Fourth place earned 50,000 shillings and a medal. Fifth place got 30,000 shillings and a medal. The organizers also awarded medals to students who placed up to 10th position.
Winners in Poetry, Public Speaking, and Story Telling received wall clocks, framed certificates, and medals. Fresh Dairy also provided milk as part of the gift hampers.
Expressing Opinions on National Issues
The contest ran under a powerful theme. It was “A better Uganda is Possible: What the New Government Should Focus On.” Students used the opportunity to express their opinions. They tackled pressing national issues and suggested solutions for the country’s most dire needs.
Edison Masereka, the Founder and Executive Director of The Platform Uganda, called the event a huge success. He noted the students’ enthusiasm as they battled for prizes. The Head Teacher of Kiira College Butiki, Mr. Semwanga Moses, graced the occasion.
A Timely Opportunity for Learners
Choice Namaganda, the Communication Lead, said the contest was timely. It came when learners needed it most. It provided a wonderful opportunity for students to showcase their exceptionalism. It also allowed them to receive recognition for their talents.
High Praise from Teachers and Patrons
Teachers and patrons in attendance expressed their excitement. They commended the conveners for the excellent planning and organization. They especially appreciated the focus on individual student recognition. Awarding both school trophies and individual prizes motivated the learners greatly.
Nurturing a Creative Generation
The Platform Uganda aims to nurture creativity among young people. Learner creativity has been dwindling, but this contest is changing the narrative. The organization helps students think on their feet. They encourage students to put their talents to use. They also inform students about topics beyond the traditional classroom curriculum.
The Grand Inter-Schools Contest is more than just a competition. It is a platform for building a creative and informed generation. The future of Uganda is bright with such talented young minds leading the way.
