Kisozi High School Student Nyanzi Martin Luther Advocates for Interact Clubs In Schools

By a Correspondent

Kampala | July 25, 2026

A student at Kisozi High School in Wakiso District, Nyanzi Martin Luther, has called for the introduction of Interact Clubs in schools across Uganda, saying the initiative can help learners gain practical leadership experience and develop a culture of community service.

[ Nyanzi Martin Luther/ Photo]

Nyanzi, a youth activist and media entrepreneur, made the call during a youth engagement event at Speke Resort Munyonyo, where he spoke about the need for schools to prepare students not only academically but also for future responsibilities in society.

He said many young people complete school with academic qualifications but limited opportunities to practise leadership, decision-making and teamwork.

“Most schools have failed to produce successful politicians,” Nyanzi said, arguing that students need platforms where they can develop leadership abilities before joining public life.

He said schools should create environments where learners can take responsibility, organise activities and participate in projects that benefit their communities.

Nyanzi pointed to King’s College Budo and Buddo Secondary School as examples of institutions that have produced many leaders over the years. He said their history shows the importance of giving students opportunities to develop confidence and leadership skills while still in school.

King’s College Budo alumni include former Ugandan presidents Sir Edward Mutesa II, Yusuf Lule and Godfrey Binaisa, former Prime Minister Apolo Nsibambi, Attorney General Kiryowa Kiwanuka, Chief Justice Alfonse Owiny-Dollo, International Court of Justice Judge Julia Sebutinde, and former Kampala Capital City Authority Executive Director Jennifer Musisi.

Nyanzi said schools can learn from institutions with such traditions by strengthening student-led programmes that promote responsibility and service.

“I think Interact Clubs are important in schools,” he said.

Interact Clubs are part of Rotary International’s youth programmes for students aged between 12 and 18. The clubs allow students to elect leaders, organise community service projects and develop skills in communication, teamwork and project management with support from local Rotary clubs.

Nyanzi said the programme is suitable for schools because it does not require large financial resources.

“They are not even funded by the school. We just need the idea and the willingness to start one,” he said.

He added that allowing students to manage the clubs gives them practical experience that cannot always be gained through classroom lessons.

“This will improve their skills too,” he said.

Nyanzi also stressed the role of voluntary service in shaping responsible leaders, saying young people can learn important values by participating in activities aimed at helping others.

The proposal comes amid wider discussions about education reform in Uganda, with calls for schools to focus not only on examination results but also on critical thinking, creativity, leadership and civic responsibility.

While many schools already have debate clubs, journalism clubs, environmental groups and other student organisations, supporters of Interact Clubs say the programme offers a structured approach to leadership training through community service.

Nyanzi urged school administrators, parents, education leaders and Rotary clubs to work together to expand Interact Clubs, saying early exposure to leadership opportunities can help students become more prepared for future roles in their communities and the country.

He said developing responsible leaders should begin at school level, where young people can learn the values of service, accountability and teamwork.