By John Kusolo
In an innovative approach to civic engagement, the National Identification and Registration Authority (NIRA) has, for the third consecutive year, partnered with the Ministry of Education and Sports, with support from UNICEF, to amplify the importance of National Identification Number (NIN) registration through Music, Dance, and Drama (MDD) competitions in primary schools. This initiative, which has proven to be a highly effective method of communication, was showcased at the National Primary Schools MDD Festival at Mbale Secondary School.
Harnessing the Power of MDD for Civic Education
MDD, known for its dynamic and engaging nature, has long been a tool for storytelling and education. Recognizing its potential, NIRA has integrated MDD into its broader strategy to educate the public, particularly young people, about the procedures and importance of NIN registration. By using MDD, NIRA is able to reach students and their communities in a way that is both entertaining and informative. The young performers act as messengers, spreading awareness about NIN registration and encouraging their peers and families to participate in this critical national exercise.
*On-Site Registration at the MDD Festival*
To complement the awareness efforts, NIRA set up mobile registration units at the Mbale SS venue, providing on-the-spot NIN registration services to festival participants and the surrounding community. These mobile units offer a full suite of services, including first-time NIN registration, replacement of lost or damaged NIN cards, and birth and death registrations. This on-site presence is part of NIRA’s strategy to make its services more accessible and to ensure that individuals can act on the information provided during the MDD performances.
*Comprehensive *Services and Seamless* *Integration**
In addition to the mobile registration units, NIRA emphasizes that all its offices across the country remain open and operational, providing a wide range of services. The outreach through the MDD festival is designed to supplement these permanent service points, making it easier for citizens to access NIN services without disrupting their daily routines. This seamless integration of mobile and fixed service points ensures that NIRA can effectively serve the public, whether they are at a local office or attending a cultural event.
*The Role of Strategic Partnerships*
The success of this initiative is underpinned by the strong partnership between NIRA, the Ministry of Education and Sports, and UNICEF. By working together, these organizations have been able to create a unique platform that combines cultural engagement with civic education. The Ministry’s involvement ensures that the messages reach the school level, where young minds are shaped, while UNICEF’s support highlights the importance of every child having a NIN, which is crucial for their future opportunities.
*Triangulating Communication for Broader Reach*
NIRA’s use of MDD as a communication tool is part of a broader strategy to triangulate its messaging across multiple platforms. By combining traditional outreach methods, digital communication, and now, cultural performances, NIRA is ensuring that its messages reach all corners of the country. This multi-channel approach is particularly important in a diverse country like Uganda, where different regions and communities may respond better to different forms of communication.
The National Primary Schools MDD Festival at Mbale SS was more than just a celebration of Uganda’s rich cultural heritage—it is a powerful platform for civic engagement. Through its continued partnership with the Ministry of Education and Sports and UNICEF, NIRA is demonstrating how innovative approaches to communication can have a significant impact on national registration efforts. As NIRA continues to use MDD to amplify its messages, the importance of NIN registration is being communicated in a way that is engaging, accessible, and effective.
By bringing its services directly to the public at events like the MDD festival, NIRA is making it easier for citizens to obtain their NINs, thereby contributing to the national goal of comprehensive registration. This initiative not only highlights the importance of having a NIN but also reflects NIRA’s broader commitment to ensuring that every Ugandan understands the significance of this identifier and has easy access to the services needed to obtain it.
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