Uganda has one of the youngest populations in the world, with over 70% her people under the age of 35. Such a high number of young people is an opportunity for the countries' growth-but only if these new generations are fully empowered to harness their best potential and eliminate the risky destructions that easily harm their destinies and that of the nation.

It is from this background that The First Lady and Hon. Minister of Education and Sports, Maama Janet Kataaha Museveni called on state and none state actors to collaboratively address moral and ethical decadence among the youth.

At the inauguration of the incoming Makerere University Council and while officiating at the 73rd Makerere University Graduation on 10th and 13th February 2023, respectively, the first Lady voiced concern at the startling statistics that show a large number of young people abusing drugs and alcohol, engaging in sexual immorality, violent strikes, gambling and pornography all of which are a threat to not just their personal lives and destinies but also that of the nation.

Research has shown that Uganda's youth are navigating major repercussions of immoral and unethical behaviour, such as deadly diseases, unwanted pregnancies, depression, poverty and loss of life and property.

As such, The emerging Leaders Program is one of the programmatic interventions that seeks to address this national challenge and harness the potential of the youth to become responsible and participating citizens for sustainable development.