Culture Heritage At Risk As Starlight School Urges Learners To Preserve Tradition

 October 6, 2026   |    39 views

Concerns over the declining appreciation of cultural traditions among young people have prompted Starlight Secondary School in Orungo County, Amuria District, to strengthen efforts to reconnect learners with their cultural heritage.

The school has rewarded students who participated in its annual cultural gala, with each participating cultural group receiving 200,000 shillings after the competition.

The event brought together students representing the Ethur community from Abim, Lango, Acholi, Kumam and Iteso Idwe-Oduk communities.

The students showcased traditional dances, indigenous foods, poems, songs, cultural anthems and traditional attire in an effort to keep their cultural practices alive.

Teddy Anyuk Osire, the Executive Director of Starlight Secondary School, expressed concern that cultural norms and traditions could gradually disappear if young people are not encouraged to learn and practise them.

She called on parents to give their children both formal education and knowledge of their cultural heritage, saying the responsibility of preserving traditions cannot be left to schools alone.

Juliet Alejo, the Head Teacher of Starlight Secondary School, said the school organises the cultural gala every year to help learners remain connected to their cultural roots.

She appreciated the students for participating and urged them to continue valuing their traditions despite the growing influence of modern lifestyles.

Jacob Jonga, the Deputy Resident District Commissioner of Amuria District, encouraged the school to continue organising cultural events, saying they provide learners with an opportunity to understand and appreciate their heritage.

Jonga commended the school management for promoting cultural activities, saying such events help learners refresh their minds while strengthening their understanding of their communities.

The school says continued exposure of young people to cultural practices is necessary to prevent the gradual loss of traditions and ensure that Uganda’s diverse cultural heritage survives for future generations.