Simpson M
Parents, local leaders, and administrators of Kiganga Primary School in Nyabushenyi parish, Nyarushanje Sub-county, Rukungiri District express concern over the inadequate state of the school as it prepares to reopen next month.
The school, established in 1979, faces significant challenges with only three classroom blocks, two of which are constructed with mud. The sole permanent classroom block was built by parents after unsuccessful appeals to the government for assistance. Patriot Abaho, the school head teacher, describes the sorry state of the facility, citing dusty floors, lack of windows, leaking roofs, cracked walls, worn-out timber, and a nursery section building supported by wooden pillars.
Despite an enrollment of over 200 pupils, the school grapples with insufficient classrooms and chairs. Parents fear that with the impending rainy season, their children will lack proper shelter. They assert that while parents have contributed their efforts, the government’s failure to support the school remains a significant challenge.
Eliab Tukamuhabwa, a parent and former head teacher at the school, laments the government’s neglect, emphasizing that since its establishment, no government-built structure, except a toilet, has been provided. Despite paying taxes and supporting the ruling party (NRM), parents question why their school is in such a dire state. Tukamuhabwa acknowledges the government’s role but stresses the urgent need for support to ensure the safety and well-being of the students.
Godfrey Tumwesigiire, another concerned parent and former teacher at the school, points out the adverse impact of the situation on pupils’ academic performance. He notes that constant worry about rain distracts students, leading to reduced concentration on their studies.
According to the parents, the deteriorating infrastructure and inadequate facilities pose risks to the safety and education of over 200 enrolled pupils.
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