St. Joseph’s Senior Secondary School, Naggalama, on 25th June 2025 held a successful academic conference under the theme: “Achieving Excellence Together Amidst the Changing Trends in the Education Landscape.” The conference was held at the school premises (Fr Ssempala Hall) and brought together members of the BOG, educators, head teachers from different schools, leaders, teaching and non-teaching staff, and students to reflect on how to adapt and thrive as education evolves.

The conference was Graced by Dr. Enock Kibuuka as Guest of Honor. He educated the audience on the dynamic educational landscape and its key characteristics. Dr. Kibuuka also outlined what St. Joseph’s SSS Naggalama stands for, the Ministry of Education and Sports education aspirations, and a strategic way to reposition the school. He praised the progress St. Joseph’s Naggalama has made and urged teachers and students to embrace technology, critical thinking, and teamwork. “Excellence is no longer about memorizing notes,” he said. “It is about solving real problems together.”

Msgr. Rev. Dr. Richard Kayondo of the chairman Board of Governors, Mr. Ssentimba, a member of the board, and Dr. Ezra Ndunda, Vice President of NOSA equally addressed the audience.

Msgr. Rev. Dr. Kayondo Richard in his address described a successful man as “one who can lay a firm foundation for a house with the bricks others throw at him.” He thanked everyone for the spirit behind the conference and told students that education is a lifelong process of acquiring knowledge, skills, and values that develop critical thinking and shape character. He encouraged them to do the right thing at the right time, congratulated the administration for fulfilling the set targets for the 2025 conference, promised to address challenges raised, and commended students for their general discipline.

The school administration was fully represented by Head Teacher Mrs. Nsubuga Agnes, Mr. Amone Venasio, and all staff members.

Mrs. Nsubuga Agnes presented an analysis of UCE and UACE results, revealing that St. Joseph’s was ranked 2nd nationally. She congratulated the school for having 37 students admitted to different universities on national merit. She gave comparisons with previous years, noted that no candidate scored D and E in UCE in the two previous years, and highlighted the national positions of different subjects. She urged everyone to work hard and maintain the high standard because “the top is topless.” She also presented a SWOT analysis of the school, highlighting its Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats.

From the conference chair, students were encouraged to work hard, be good leaders and not rulers, be daring, and always be on the move so they can thrive. They were asked to “water their seeds with prayer, discipline, and hard work.” He quoted that “excellence is never awarded in absence,” therefore students should show up and strive to be in places that matter. He urged them to take three hours every week to do three new things.

The conference also hosted visiting head teachers who were the observers, student delegates, and staff members. In breakout sessions, students shared ideas on study habits, digital learning, and peer mentorship. Student delegates later thanked the school for the good meals, smart boards, Prom parties, good infrastructure, and the dedication of teaching and non-teaching staff.

In conclusion the following were resolved.

That students work hard towards achieving academic excellence.

That more counseling camps are held in school to guide students accordingly.

That students Copy and keep all class work notes.

That students have well laid academic targets, with personal reading timetables.

To have a collective responsibility towards achieving success.

In closing, Rev. Fr. Vincent Wasswa blessed the gathering and reminded students that God’s Grace works on human efforts.

 Mrs. Nsubuga thanked all participants and called on everyone to put the resolutions into action.

DISCIPLINED WE SUCCEED