Ambassador William W. Popp addressed the community at St. Peter’s Nsambya Senior Secondary School, marking a historic celebration of U.S. Independence Day with students and faculty. The event was notable for its focus on American volunteerism and fostering community ties.
"Today we are making history," Ambassador Popp stated, highlighting the first-time collaboration between the U.S. Embassy and the school to celebrate American Independence Day together. This day commemorates the adoption of the Declaration of Independence in 1776 and is recognized as a national holiday in the United States.
The event also emphasized volunteerism, with over 100 professionals from various sectors joining classes to share their experiences. "This is a day of mentorship, in the spirit of volunteerism, that we are proud to share with St. Peter’s," said Ambassador Popp.
Representatives from American companies such as Simplifi Uganda, Wave, Sheraton Hotels, Pepsi, Marsh, Willis Towers Watson, Inbev, Citibank, and the American Tower Corporation (ATC) participated in the event. ATC's contribution included placing a Digital Community IT Learning Center at St. Peter’s.
American Peace Corps Volunteers were present to engage with students and practice local languages like Luganda and Lusoga. Alumni from U.S.-funded academic programs also attended to mentor students.
Ambassador Popp outlined the primary mission of the U.S. Embassy in Uganda: strengthening diplomatic relations, promoting economic ties, providing health assistance, offering consular services, facilitating educational exchanges, and enhancing security cooperation.
The event aimed to break down barriers between communities by integrating U.S. Embassy staff into classrooms for interactive sessions with students about career paths and skills development.
Ambassador Popp expressed hope for an ongoing relationship between the embassy and St. Peter’s Nsambya Senior Secondary School: "Our goal is to lower...the walls between our Embassy and your school."
The celebration concluded with an invitation for some students and faculty to attend an Independence Day Picnic at the embassy.
"Young people like you will define the next era of the world," Ambassador Popp encouraged students to remain curious and diligent in their pursuits.