Colourful traditional rhythms, poetry and theatrical performances filled the air at Namilyango College as students showcased Uganda’s rich cultural heritage during the school’s 2026 Music, Dance and Drama (MDD) competition.
The event, held on March 7, brought together learners from different houses who competed in a variety of artistic categories including folk songs, traditional dances, original compositions, mimes, poems and western pieces drawn from different regions of the country.
The performances reflected the diversity of cultures that make up Uganda while highlighting the role of the arts in education.
Speaking as the chief guest, the school’s head teacher, Constantine Mpuuga, emphasised that Music, Dance and Drama should not be seen merely as entertainment but as a powerful tool for promoting unity and cultural appreciation among learners.
He explained that through MDD activities, students learn to respect and appreciate the cultures and languages of people from different parts of the country.
“As a school, we know very well that by holding MDD competitions, we are not wasting time. Through MDD, we teach learners love, respect for each other’s cultures and to support one another,” Mr Mpuuga said.
The competition was held under the theme, “Let us run with determination the race that God has set before us,” encouraging students to pursue their talents with commitment and discipline.
Students competed under their respective houses including Campling, Mukasa, Doyle, Heweston, McKee, Biermans, Kiwanuka, Kuipers, Hanlon, Reensick, Charles Lwanga and Billington.
Each house presented carefully choreographed performances inspired by cultural traditions from different parts of the country, turning the event into a vibrant celebration of Uganda’s heritage.
Mpuuga also called on Ugandans to embrace unity if the country is to realise faster development, noting that cultural understanding is an important foundation for national cohesion.
At the end of the competition, McKee House emerged the overall winner with 523 points, narrowly defeating Mukasa House which scored 520 points.
Kiwanuka House came third with 489 points. Doyle House, which had won the 2025 competition, finished seventh with 440 points.
To recognise their effort, the winning house received a bull, while the second-placed house was awarded three goats and the third received two goats.
Agnes Mugoya Namiiro, the chairperson of the organising committee, praised the students for their outstanding performances despite having limited time for training and rehearsals.
She also commended parents for their continued support towards the school, noting that their involvement has contributed greatly to the institution’s success in both academic and co-curricular activities.
Adrian Sserubiri, the patron of McKee House, attributed their victory to teamwork and dedication among members of the house.
He said the prize of a bull had motivated the students to continue working hard and to aim for more victories in other co-curricular competitions.
The annual MDD competition remains one of the most anticipated events at Namilyango College, offering students a platform not only to entertain but also to learn, celebrate diversity and strengthen bonds of unity through culture and creativity.
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