The Office of the Government Anti-Corruption Taskforce has announced a new initiative aimed at involving university students in the fight against corruption. The program, which has already kicked off in Kampala, seeks to educate students on how they can support government efforts to combat graft and eliminate unethical practices in the country.
A Call for Collective Responsibility
Beti Kamya, the IGG, emphasized that fighting corruption is a shared responsibility that requires the involvement of all citizens, including students. He made these remarks during a meeting with students from various universities, where he outlined the objectives of the initiative.
“Fighting corruption is the responsibility of every Ugandan. By working together, we can create a corruption-free society and ensure sustainable development in our country,” Beti Kamya said.
The initiative aims to empower students with the knowledge and tools needed to identify and report corrupt practices, as well as to promote ethical behavior in their communities.
Students Raise Concerns
During the meeting, students raised several questions about the effectiveness of the Anti-Corruption Taskforce, particularly its ability to hold high-ranking government officials accountable. They expressed frustration over the perceived lack of action against powerful individuals implicated in corruption scandals.
“Why is your office unable to arrest and prosecute high-profile individuals involved in corruption? What steps are being taken to ensure that no one is above the law?” one student asked.
Other students offered suggestions on how the government could strengthen its anti-corruption efforts, including the need for stricter enforcement of laws and greater transparency in public offices.
Challenges in the Fight Against Corruption
Beti Kamya acknowledged the challenges faced by his office in tackling corruption, especially when dealing with influential individuals. He explained that the Anti-Corruption Taskforce operates within a complex legal and political environment, which sometimes limits its ability to act swiftly.
“As the head of this office, I understand your concerns. However, fighting corruption is not a one-man job. It requires collective effort and support from all sectors of society,” he said.
Beti Kamya also highlighted the importance of the new initiative, which aims to mobilize students as active participants in the fight against corruption. He urged university leaders to encourage their students to join the program and contribute to the cause.
University Leaders Support the Initiative
Some university leaders, including Dr. Kisubi Esther from St. Lawrence University, expressed their support for the initiative. They shared insights from their institutions on how students can play a role in promoting integrity and accountability.
“This initiative is a step in the right direction. By educating students about the dangers of corruption and empowering them to take action, we can create a generation of ethical leaders,” Dr. Kisubi said.
Conclusion
The launch of the anti-corruption initiative marks a significant step in the government’s efforts to involve young people in the fight against graft. By engaging university students, the program aims to foster a culture of transparency, accountability, and ethical leadership in Uganda.
As the initiative rolls out across the country, stakeholders hope that it will inspire students to become champions of integrity and contribute to the development of a corruption-free society.
