By Delux Emmy Alomu
SOROTI CITY
Soroti Catholic Bishop, Dr. Joseph Eciru Oliach, has issued a heartfelt message to graduating students not to let their God-given talents go to waste by engaging in questionable activities.
He delivered this important message during a mass held this morning, 3rd July, 2026 at the graduation ceremony for 375 students who have completed two years of training at St. Kizito Technical Institute in Madera, Soroti City.
Among the graduates, 70 have specialized in automotive mechanics, 54 in building construction, 108 in electrical installation, 51 in fashion and garment design, 24 in machinery and fitting, 58 in plumbing, and 10 in woodwork technology.
Bishop Eciru cautioned against the troubling trend of graduates squandering their skills on activities such as drinking, gambling, drug use, and nightlife. He emphasized that this leads them down the wrong path.
“Your goal should be to utilize and amplify the skills and knowledge you’ve gained to create positive change and drive economic empowerment,” he stated. He further stressed the dangers of letting alcohol undermine their abilities, pointing out that it hampers their work ethic and performance.
He encouraged the graduates to be lifelong learners, pushing themselves to grow rather than settling for the bare minimum of a certificate. “Aim higher; the possibilities for your future are boundless,” he proclaimed.
Inspiring them to think big, Bishop Eciru urged the graduates to dream like the builders of the Tower of Babel, to embrace hard work, and to cultivate creativity and innovation in their endeavors. He highlighted the importance of being industrious and ready to take on multiple tasks to achieve economic success.
The Bishop also urged the graduates to maintain integrity in their work—steering clear of lies, subpar quality, inflated prices, and deceitful practices. Punctuality and collaboration were both emphasized; working together as a team enhances their potential for far-reaching achievements.
“Use the knowledge and skills you’ve acquired to shape the future you desire. Go out into the world and contribute positively,” he encouraged. He cautioned against operating in isolation, suggesting that those with shared skills should form partnerships to foster development together.
“It would be a shame to hear that the bishop graduated you only to find out your building has collapsed. Let the quality of your work speak for you and make us all proud,” he concluded.
St. Kizito Technical Institute Madera was founded in 1947 by the Catholic Church as a Vernacular Teacher Training College. It was later transitioned into a rural trade school in 1956 before eventually attaining full technical institute status.
Over the decades, the institution expanded its programs to include practical skills training like building, carpentry, tailoring, and motor vehicle mechanics for war veterans. Today, it is a prominent government-aided TVET institute located in Soroti.
