Poor state of schools in Bunyangabu worries leaders

Bunyangabu, Uganda |  THE INDEPENDENT |  Leaders in Katebwa Sub County in Bunyangabu district have raised concerns over the poor state of government schools in the area. 

The schools in the sub-county are operating under unfavorable conditions, which have affected learning.  The situation is worse in government primary schools, many of which are operating in dilapidated structures.

At Katebwa Primary School, the structures used by Primary five and four pupils are dilapidated, have cracks while other learners study in mud and wattle rooms. 

Abdul Karatunga, the Deputy Headteacher says that they are likely to struggle to operate when all classes resume. He wants the Ministry of Education to urgently come to their rescue.

Japheth Kisembo, the Deputy School Headteacher Bunaiga Primary says the most of structures are in a poor state and exposing the teachers and pupils to risk as the structures are on the verge of collapse.

He explains that besides the insufficient and dilapidated classroom structures, the schools also lack toilets. Kisembo says that the UPE capitation grant is inadequate to renovate both the classes and the latrines. 

According to Kisembo, the school also lacks a water system forcing teachers to create a rota for pupils to fetch water from nearby streams and boreholes.  

At Kinyampanika Primary School, Daniel Biindi the school headteacher says they have shifted Primary Six and Five classes to other buildings. Biindi is worried that if there is no intervention from the government, there will be no adequate space for Primary One and Two pupils who are expected to report in June.

But Annet Katusiimea parent from Kabonero blames the area leaders for neglecting the needs of the residents. 

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