Young professionals undertaking internships in the district have been encouraged to become champions of human rights, accountability, and ethical leadership to strengthen public institutions and improve service delivery.
The call was made during a human rights orientation organised by the Wakiso District Human Rights Committee, which aimed to equip interns with a practical understanding of human rights principles, the protection of human rights defenders, and their role in promoting justice, equity, and accountability within communities.
Speaking at the session, the Wakiso District LC V Chairperson, Eng. Ian Kyeyune, commended Mr. Elly Kasirye and the District Human Rights Committee for prioritising human rights awareness among young professionals.
“My biggest concern is equity. It is my mandate to promote human rights, and I placed it as number two in my manifesto,” Eng. Kyeyune said.
He reaffirmed the district’s commitment to promoting transparency, accountability, and integrity in public service, noting that the fight against corruption remains central to improving government service delivery in line with the President’s directive.
The Chairperson of the Wakiso District Human Rights Committee, Mr. Elly Kasirye, said the orientation deliberately targeted interns because they represent the next generation of public servants, professionals, and community leaders.
“Equipping young professionals with a strong understanding of human rights will help build accountable public institutions and create communities where the dignity and rights of every person are respected, protected, and fulfilled,” he said.
Mr. Kasirye emphasised that every individual is entitled to fundamental rights, including the rights to education, freedom of religion, freedom of expression, and access to essential services, all of which must be protected without discrimination. He further highlighted the core principles of human rights, including equality, universality, inclusivity, respect for human dignity, the rule of law, transparency, accountability, and meaningful public participation.
Facilitators from the Centre for Health, Human Rights and Development (CEHURD) underscored the close relationship between human rights and access to quality public services such as healthcare, clean water, education, and social protection. They encouraged interns to view service delivery through a human rights lens, recognising access to essential services as a fundamental right rather than an act of charity.
The training also drew attention to the unique challenges faced by women and girls, who continue to encounter economic, physical, cultural, digital, and political barriers that limit their access to opportunities and essential public services. Participants were urged to advocate for inclusive policies and practices that leave no one behind.
Interns were encouraged to identify and report service delivery gaps, challenge discriminatory practices, and uphold human rights-based approaches in their respective workplaces and communities. Facilitators stressed that sustainable development can only be achieved through respect for human rights, accountability, and adherence to the rule of law as enshrined in the Constitution of the Republic of Uganda.
The orientation is expected to equip interns with the knowledge, values, and practical skills needed to promote human rights, strengthen accountability, and contribute to more equitable, inclusive, and responsive public service delivery across the district.