Uganda is set to host the 3rd National Mentorship Awards on September 18, 2025, at State House, with H.E. the President of the Republic of Uganda as the Chief Guest. The event comes as national leaders call on young people to embrace mentorship as a powerful tool for preserving the nation’s history, values, and a sense of purposeful living.
Speaking ahead of the ceremony, at the press conference held at Sheraton Kampala, Mr. Odrek Rwabwogo, Chairman of the Presidential Advisory Committee, said the awards will celebrate individuals and institutions that have inspired the next generation through mentorship.
He underscored the importance of drawing lessons from history to strengthen the country’s future.
“History is not just about dates and events, it is a medicine for tomorrow,” Rwabwogo noted. Citing little-known accounts from the 1970s, he emphasised that young Ugandans must be guided by elders who lived through defining national moments. “If you don’t pull those stories out, you won’t keep this country growing in your time. What bothered us 100 years ago still bothers us today. Mentorship helps us find solutions for tomorrow.”
He added that the awards would highlight individuals whose wisdom and resilience can inspire the youth to face today’s challenges. “On the 18th, you will see men and women who knew their world, faced it with courage, and are now passing on their lessons to a new generation,” Rwabwogo said.
“The National Mentorship Awards are not only about celebrating our elders, but also about inspiring young Ugandans to learn from the lives of those who came before them,” said Mr. Odrek Rwabwogo. “By recognising these women and men, we are affirming that dignity, hard work, and selfless service are the true cornerstones of building a strong nation.”
The awards honour individuals aged 70 years and above who have demonstrated uninterrupted and dedicated service to Uganda, built or strengthened institutions, and inspired generations through their character, values, and achievements. Even in retirement, many continue to influence national growth and community development.
“Mentorship is about passing on values that transcend generations,” Mr. Rwabwogo added. “By awarding these leaders, we are telling our youth that success is not measured only in wealth or position, but in the legacy of positive impact you leave behind.”
Former Minister of Finance Dr. Ezra Suruma, also set to grace the event, described mentorship as a lifelong process of growth and continuity.
“Mentorship is an interactive process of human beings, hopefully in peaceful and progressive conditions, that benefits everyone in our society,” Suruma explained. Drawing from his experience as a lecturer and public servant, he stressed that individuals must recognise their God-given gifts and use them for the betterment of society.
“It’s not always easy to know your purpose in life. But when you ask the One who created you, He will show you. Mentorship helps us to see and use the gifts we have been given for the purpose for which we were created,” Suruma added.
The National Mentorship Awards, initiated in 2023, recognise outstanding Ugandans who have invested in nurturing others through knowledge-sharing, leadership guidance, and cultural preservation. Organisers say this year’s edition will not only honour mentors but also spark conversations on building a culture of guidance across generations.
This year’s ceremony will recognise 11 distinguished Ugandans for their outstanding contributions in various fields, including science and technology, academia, politics, trade and commerce, the military, arts and culture, law, journalism, and religion.
The National Mentorship Awards are held annually to celebrate exemplary service by retired public servants and leaders, reminding the younger generation of the importance of integrity, diligence, and service above self. The first and second editions were held in February 2023 and April 2024, respectively.
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