The Government of Uganda has announced the third edition of the National Mentorship Awards, scheduled to take place on Thursday, September 18, 2025, at State House Entebbe, with H.E. the President of the Republic of Uganda as the Chief Guest.
During a press conference this morning at Sheraton Kampala Hotel, Odrek Rwabwogo, the Chairman of the Presidential Advisory Committee on Exports and Industrial Development (PACEID) announced that this year’s ceremony will recognize 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 not only about celebrating our elders, but also about inspiring young Ugandans to learn from the lives of those who came before them. By recognizing these women and men, we are affirming that dignity, hard work, and selfless service are the true cornerstones of building a strong nation,” he noted.
Odrek Rwabwogo
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.
“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.”
Matthew Bagonza explains why mentorship matters.
Matthew Bagonza, PACEID Head of Secretariat explained why mentorship matter. By recognizing exemplary elderly leaders, we aim to achieve: national unity & shared identity, preserve wisdom & values, inspire younger generations, social cohesion, and legitimizing mentorship as a national value.
“The National Mentorship Day is a space where Ugandans come together to honor those whose leadership, resilience, and guidance have shaped the nation. By shining a light on exemplary figures, the initiative reminds the public that mentorship is not an abstract idea, but a practical force that strengthens families, communities, and the country’s future.”
Prof. Ezra Suruma
Two recipients from last year’s edition, Prof. Ezra Suruma and Prof. Mercy Mirembe Ntangaare, shared reflections on the transformative role of mentorship in shaping Uganda’s future.
Prof. Suruma emphasized the centrality of God in mentorship, reminding the youth to recognize their gifts and use them purposefully. “Stand on God’s promise and use your gifts to achieve that purpose. Be purposeful through God,” he urged.
Prof. Ntangaare described mentorship as intergenerational learning, highlighting the importance of family as the first institution of mentorship. “We need to recognize the first mentor—God. Each of us has a role to play as mentors, regardless of age or status. Young people must persevere, set goals, and practice what they learn,” she said.
Prof. Mercy Mirembe Ntangaare
The press conference also featured student leaders from various universities, including Amanaya Belinda – former Vice President Gulu University, Pius Kiyemba – former President, Law Society Kampala Uiversity , and Emmanuel Okubu, who proposed the establishment of a mentorship academy to strengthen intergenerational knowledge transfer. Also present was Moses Kibombo, President of the Confederation of Ugandans in South Africa.
L-R: Emmanuel Okubu, Pius Kiyemba and Amanya Belinda represented student leaders at the press conference
Prof. Ephraim Kamuntu and Moses Kibombo during the press briefing
