“God first in everything” – Rev. Mercy Ruth Awor tells Yendo school students

Lira | Rev. Mercy Ruth Awor, Curate of All Saints Church Obanga Pe Wany, Lira City, presided over the formal swearing-in of the elected student leaders of Yendo School of Catering and Hotel Management on Monday, March 31, 2025.

The event took place at the school’s campus in Central Park Cell, Ireda East Ward, Lira City East Division. Rev. Mercy emphasized the value of God-fearing leadership, discipline, and vocational education as a means to success.

In her keynote address, she urged the 15 newly sworn-in leaders to prioritize God in all that they do.

“The Bible teaches us to respect and honor leadership, for it is through righteousness that we achieve success,” she said. “A true leader must not seek personal gain but must serve with integrity, humility, and fear of God.”

She also encouraged the students to use their leadership positions responsibly to benefit the school and their peers.

Rev. Awor also appealed to parents to consider vocational training, particularly in catering and hotel management, as a viable alternative for children who may struggle with traditional academic paths.

“Not every child must go through secondary school. If a parent can afford fees, that is good, but for those who cannot, vocational skills like catering and hotel management offer a quicker path to self-reliance,” she noted.

Moses Eyen, the school’s director, echoed this sentiment, assuring parents that the institution, which is fully accredited by the Ministry of Education and Sports, provides students with practical skills that can be used to earn money within one to two years of training.

“This school was opened to support poor families who cannot afford secondary education. In hotel management, your child can start earning immediately after training,” Eyen said.

Max Okwir Maxwell – is the Guild President (taking over from Vincent Smith Odongo Okech)

Paul Okello – Vice Guild President

Ayor Steven – Guild Speaker

Akullu Mercy Gifty – Vice Guild Speaker

The new leaders pledged to uphold transparency, accountability, and service during their tenure.

Martha Awor, a former Senior Six candidate from St. Mary’s Aboke (who received 10 points in the UACE 2024), explained why she chose vocational training over university.

“I joined this school because catering is a skill that can lift one out of poverty faster than many years of academic study without guaranteed employment,” she said.

James Omara Elem, Lira City Secretary for Finance and Administration, who presided over the event as Guest of Honor, urged students to focus on their education regardless of their background.

“Whether you are an orphan or come from a struggling family, do not let your past define you. Concentrate on your studies, avoid self-pity, and strive for excellence. Education is the key to your future,” he emphasized.

The event reinforced the message that vocational education, when combined with strong moral values, has the potential to transform people’s lives.

With new leadership in place and ongoing support from school administrators and community leaders, the Yendo School of Catering and Hotel Management remains a beacon of hope for students looking for early economic empowerment.