By Nathan Eyagu 

Soroti City – In a heartfelt ceremony held on Thursday, Triple A City Stars Nursery and Primary School celebrated its second graduation, emphasizing the crucial theme of "Child Protection." The event took place on the school’s premises in Oderai Ward in Soroti City, with 22 pupils from the top class receiving their diplomas in front of proud parents, teachers, and community leaders.

Head teacher Ocen Pius opened the ceremony by reflecting on the school’s remarkable growth, which has seen enrolment increase from 132 learners in 2024 to over 200 in 2025.

"We are poised to welcome more than 300 students in 2026," he announced, expressing his pride in the commitment of the educators and staff who foster a supportive learning environment. The school’s curriculum not only focuses on academic excellence but also prioritizes the holistic development of each child through good nutrition, skills training, and spiritual mentorship with weekly morning devotions.

In his address, Ocen urged parents to be actively involved in their children's lives, regardless of their busy schedules. “Children need our attention and support to thrive both academically and emotionally,” he remarked, stressing that parental engagement is vital to their well-being.

The ceremony was further enhanced by guest speaker Elizabeth Aluka Odeke, who works with a local NGO dedicated to child protection. Odeke highlighted the alarming prevalence of child abuse and the need for heightened vigilance within the community. “The faces of the perpetrators can be closer than we think teachers, parents, and transporters among them,” she warned.

She encouraged parents to report any suspicious activities to community authorities rather than attempting to investigate on their own.

Omoding Stephen Eupa, Deputy Assistant Regional City Commissioner in Soroti City East, echoed Odeke’s call for community vigilance. “Many of the youth-related crimes we encounter involve children influenced by negative peer associations,” he said, urging parents to nurture their children’s moral development and be present in their lives.

Meanwhile Michael Opiya, the Soroti City Education Officer, praised the school's contribution to the community’s educational landscape. He emphasized the importance of stability for high-performing students, advising parents against transferring their children to different schools. “Consistency in education is key for mental growth—my advice is to engage with your child’s learning process and the teachers,” he stated.

The graduation ceremony not only celebrated the pupils' achievements but also served as a platform for advocating child safety, uniting educators, parents, and community leaders in their commitment to creating a secure environment for children. As Triple A City Stars School looks ahead, the focus remains on fostering a nurturing and protective atmosphere that allows every child to excel.

As the school prepares for another year, with plans to introduce Primary 7 classes in January 2026, the community’s collaborative efforts in child protection promise to play a vital role in shaping the future of its young learners.