Rukiga, Uganda – The annual Music, Dance, and Drama (MDD) competition in Rukiga District centered on birth rights, digital transformation in education, climate change, ending gender-based violence, and WASH & oral health.
During competitions held on Monday, July 14, 2025, at Nyeikunama Prayer Ground in Muhanga Town Council, Rukiga District, eight teams from government-aided primary schools in Muhanga Town Council and Bukinda Sub-County demonstrated various skills across multiple performance categories.
Adjudicator Ms. Ninsiima Eunice, who also serves as head teacher of Rurangara Primary School, emphasized that the competition aims to equip school-going children with knowledge about contemporary challenges.
She confirmed competing teams included pupils with potential to win at regional and national levels, particularly in the impactful technology and climate change categories.
“We’ve observed remarkable talent among the participating pupils. These children have demonstrated not just artistic ability but deep understanding of these critical issues, showing potential to excel at both regional and national levels,” Eunice noted.
Ms. Atukunda Portia, head teacher of Rusoroza Primary School, said they had adequately prepared their pupils to compete favorably in the MDD competition.
Regarding the technology and climate change categories, Atukunda stated that the children would develop digital-era thinking while learning environmental preservation.
“Through these performances, our children are developing digital-era mindsets while learning the importance of environmental conservation,” Atukunda said.
Mr. Ndinabo Jackson, Deputy Head Teacher of Rusoroza Primary School, detailed the logistical challenges schools faced in balancing academic requirements with competition preparations.
“With a tight school calendar focused on completing the syllabus, we had to carefully manage our limited time to properly prepare participants,” he explained.
The ongoing MDD Competitions events not only showcased artistic talent but served as an innovative platform for raising awareness about digital education, environmental protection, and social justice.
As the district looks forward to regional competitions, teachers expressed confidence that Rukiga’s representatives would make a strong showing, carrying forward the messages of social change and environmental stewardship that defined this year’s event.
School administrators highlighted plans to incorporate lessons from the competition into regular curricula, ensuring the event’s impact extends beyond the performance stage.