Hillary Clinton once said,
“Women are the largest untapped reservoir of talent in the world.”
On March 8th, 2024, Holy Cross Lake View SSS proudly joined the global community in celebrating International Women’s Day under the theme, “Invest in Women: Accelerate Progress.” The day was filled with joy, inspiration, and meaningful activities aimed at recognizing the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women while fostering awareness among all members of the school community.
A Day of Unique Activities and Unforgettable Moments
The celebrations featured a variety of engaging and thought-provoking activities designed to educate and create awareness about gender equity and the vital role of women in society.
One of the most captivating moments was when Mr. Wambi Ibrahim, a Geography teacher, and Miss Nakanwagi, the school matron, showcased their skills in bed-making. The demonstration not only delighted the students but also conveyed important lessons about personal hygiene and attention to detail. A male Form Three student expressed surprise, saying, “I thought laying the bed was an activity socially constructed for girls only.”
Another highlight was the demonstration of matooke peeling by Mr. Wandera Ronald and Mr. Wambi Ibrahim, both male teachers. This light-hearted yet powerful activity challenged traditional gender roles and emphasized the importance of shared responsibilities in households. A Senior Five male student remarked, “I have always left peeling matooke and other chores to my female counterparts, but with the example set by our teachers, I can now start helping at home as well.”
Inspiring Messages and Practical Lessons
The Head Girl, Abeja Sylvia, delivered an empowering speech encouraging girls to compete for leadership positions alongside boys, emphasizing the importance of confidence and self-belief. Her message resonated deeply with the audience, fostering a spirit of determination among the students.
Adding a unique touch to the celebrations, Miss Ndagire Eva, one of the school librarians, conducted a session on social etiquette, teaching students about proper gait, sitting posture, eating manners, and overall personal conduct. These lessons highlighted the importance of discipline and professionalism in building positive personal and professional relationships.
The Guest of Honour, Mrs. Nangobi Martha, an accomplished teacher and Vice President of the Mukono Development Forum, shared her inspirational journey of overcoming challenges to achieve success. Her message encouraged students to respect elders, work diligently, and build their self-esteem to achieve their aspirations.
A Symbolic Gesture of Gratitude
The celebrations culminated in a memorable and symbolic gesture: a sumptuous lunch served by male staff members, an event that reinforced the theme of solidarity and mutual respect. This rare occurrence left everyone with smiles and a renewed sense of appreciation for the contributions of women in society.
Celebrating Women and Inspiring Change
The International Women’s Day celebrations at Holy Cross Lake View SSS served as a powerful reminder of the transformative role of women in shaping the world. It inspired students to challenge stereotypes, embrace shared responsibilities, and invest in their potential as future leaders.
As the day ended, students and staff reflected on the vital contributions of women and the importance of creating a more equitable and inclusive world. Who did you celebrate on this remarkable day?