Officials from CNOOC, Hoima and Kikuube districts in a group photo with best performing students
CNOOC Uganda Limited has officially held the 2026 Best Performers Awards (BPA), reinforcing its sustained commitment to promoting academic excellence and supporting education development in the Kingfisher Development Area host districts of Hoima, Kikuube and Hoima City.
The event, held in Hoima City, brought together key stakeholders including the Lord Mayor of Hoima City, district leadership from Hoima and Kikuube, the Resident City Commissioner, representatives from the Petroleum Authority of Uganda, District and City Education Officers, and joint venture partners TotalEnergies and UNOC.
The 2026 program will benefit 300 top-performing learners selected from over 40 schools across Hoima City, Hoima District, and Kikuube District. A total of UGX 73,050,000 has been allocated for the awards, which will be distributed based on performance and level of education.
The selection process was conducted in partnership with District Education Offices, with thorough verification to ensure that only deserving students are recognized.
Building on the success of the 2025 awards, where 300 students were recognized for outstanding performance in PLE, UCE, and UACE examinations, the program continues to provide both financial support and motivation for learners to pursue higher academic achievement. As in previous years, the initiative maintains an inclusive approach, with affirmative consideration given to learners from host communities including Buhuka Parish and the sub-counties of Kyangwali, Kabwoya, Kabaale, and Buseruka, as well as learners with disabilities.
Now in its 13th year, the Best Performers Awards Program has become a flagship education initiative in the region. Since its inception in 2013, the program has now supported 1,448 students, contributing to a documented 400 percent improvement in academic performance among participating schools. With the inclusion of the 2025 cohort, the cumulative number of beneficiaries has reached 1,748, reflecting CNOOC Uganda’s growing impact in advancing education standards in the region.
The initiative aligns with CNOOC Uganda Limited’s vision of “Energy for a Better Future” and contributes to the company’s mission of Talent Development by investing in human capital development. It complements other education-focused programs such as international scholarships, which have enabled Ugandan students especially ones from the Albertine region to pursue further studies abroad, as well as vocational training initiatives that equip youth with practical skills for employment.
Speaking at the event, Mr. Wang Jufeng, VP CNOOC Uganda Limited, emphasized that the program is not only about recognizing academic excellence but also about
inspiring ambition and creating opportunities for the next generation. The company noted that each beneficiary represents a future contributor to Uganda’s development, including the oil and gas sector and other key industries.
Beyond education, CNOOC Uganda continues to implement a wide range of Community investment and Corporate Social Responsibility initiatives. These include annual medical camps that have provided free healthcare services to over 4,000 community members over the years, support to sports development through the CNOOC–Bunyoro Kitara Amasaza Cup.
Additional interventions such as, support to schools and health facilities, Buhuka Gravity Water Scheme which provides clean water to the community, sanitation and hygiene campaigns, road safety awareness, and vocational training programs targeting youth and women that have benefited thousands of community members.
Notably, more than 1,000 youth have gained skills through programs such as welding, heavy goods vehicle training, and internationally recognized certifications.
Brian Kaboyo, the Lord Mayor Hoima City who was the chief guest, expressed appreciation to the company for its continued collaboration and support, particularly in supporting education and health improvement in the region.
The company also congratulated all beneficiaries and participating schools, especially those that have consistently demonstrated outstanding academic performance over the years.
CNOOC Uganda reaffirmed its commitment to working closely with government and community stakeholders to support sustainable development, noting that investment in education remains a cornerstone for long-term socio-economic transformation.
