Sam Amanya
The school authorities and parents of Nyamihuuku Primary School expressed their concerns on Tuesday during the commissioning of a two-classroom block.
They highlighted the inadequate infrastructure to accommodate the increasing number of pupils at the school. Mr. Rubarenzya Patrick, the Head Teacher, noted several challenges including a shortage of classrooms, lack of teacher accommodation, and the absence of a UNEB sitting center, resulting in pupils having to travel long distances to other schools for Primary Leaving Examinations. He also mentioned the embarrassment of having only one toilet shared by both genders of pupils and teachers.
Karuhanga Nicholas, representing the district Engineer, acknowledged that the district authorities initially declined to commission the school due to substandard construction work by ITRACK Services Limited. However, he appreciated the contractors for rectifying the issues to meet the required standards. He urged the school authority to use the new block responsibly to ensure its longevity.
RDC Steven Nsubuga Bewayo thanked the government for providing the School Facility Grant, enabling the district to renovate and develop schools. He recounted the previous attempt to commission the building in July 2023, which was halted due to poor workmanship. He cautioned contractors against delivering substandard work, stating that he would not commission such projects until quality standards were met.
Hon. Caledonia Clare Bakironda, the Secretary for Education for Rukungiri district, praised the government for funding school renovations. She also commended the cooperation of the district leadership, which has enhanced service delivery in various sectors including health and education. Additionally, she thanked the parents of Nyamihuuku Primary School for their support, which has led to a significant increase in pupil enrollment from 87 to 192 students.
