Soroti Secondary School has honored its best performing UACE and UCE students, along with outstanding teaching staff, with luxurious rewards in recognition of their excellent performance in the 2024 UNEB examinations.
In a colorful event held at the school grounds, the best UACE students were awarded with laptops, UGX 1 million, mattresses, and blankets.
The awards ceremony, which drew a large number of dignitaries and parents, was graced by the Deputy Resident City Commissioner (RCC) Chemtai James Small, who also serves as the caretaker RCC for Soroti City.
Chemtai commended the school’s administration for this bold and inspiring initiative aimed at motivating both students and staff.
He acknowledged God’s grace for the achievement, saying, “Without His grace, this would not have happened the way it did.”
Chemtai expressed pride in Soroti SS, stating that Soroti City stands tall because of the school’s excellent academic performance, not only in the city but across the entire Teso region.
Applauding the efforts of the headteacher and his team, he quoted Philippians 4:13: “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me”, affirming that Soroti SS has indeed achieved success through divine strength.
“Small things done in Soroti SS are small but done in a great way. When we looked at the results, we were thirsty, and no wonder Soroti SS was in the top category. We appreciate your gallant sons who have brought us to the top,” Chemtai remarked with joy.
In his emotional speech, Chemtai promised to protect the headteacher, Mr. Oluka Wilfred Akeriau, from any potential transfer, stating that “his safe place is Soroti SS” and that the results speak for themselves.
“To our students who have made us gather here today, thank you sincerely. To our teachers, may God bless you for your tireless efforts. To the students still waiting, work hard, touch the clothes of your successful peers and be inspired. Your hard work and teamwork have brought success,” he added.
Chemtai also acknowledged the impact of faith and small consistent efforts, saying they eventually manifest in great achievements.
He praised Rev. Fr. Robert Echogu, the Vicar General, who led the thanksgiving mass, for his wise words that continue to uplift the community.
Quoting Proverbs 10:4 , “Diligent hands will rule, but laziness ends in forced labor,” Chemtai urged the teachers to continue working hard and striving for excellence.
He further cited Proverbs 24:27 and Jeremiah 29:11, reminding everyone that good preparation leads to a fruitful future.
George William Ekwaput, the PTA Chairperson, lauded parents for their vital role in nurturing students and supporting the school through fees and other responsibilities.
He praised the teaching staff and administration for their resilience and dedication and appealed to city administrators not to transfer Mr. Akeriau, emphasizing that he still has much to accomplish at Soroti SS.
Samuel Enyutu, Chairperson of the Board of Governors (BOG), congratulated the “golden students” and staff for their dedication.
He encouraged both students and teachers to stay focused and committed to achieving even greater academic results.
“When you see a squirrel firmly looking at you, just know there’s a hole next to it. Soroti SS, you have created your hole, now let us keep moving in the right direction towards our shared goals,” Enyutu philosophically stated.
Headteacher Oluka Wilfred Akeriau thanked parents, students, and teachers for their combined efforts and pledged that Soroti SS will continue to shine in the Teso sub-region.
With the school’s slogan, “We Lead, Others Follow,” and its campaign “Operations Front Page,” he assured continued academic excellence.
“I want to thank the offices of the Mayor East and West, and the RCC for trusting me with the headship of Soroti SS. This celebration is part of your contribution,” Mr. Akeriau said.
He also revealed plans for the school to acquire its own bus by the end of the year and urged the government to fulfill its pledge of providing a school bus.
Soroti City East Mayor, Paul Omer, expressed his gratitude to the school for its discipline and academic excellence, which have brought pride to both parents and the city.
He called upon the administration to assign unique class passwords to prevent impersonators wearing similar school uniforms from tarnishing the school’s reputation.
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