NELSON K
Local leaders in Nyakagyeme Sub-County, Rukungiri District, have strongly condemned parents for failing to take their children to school on time. While some parents intentionally keep their children at home for labor purposes, financial challenges are also a significant hindrance.
According to Norah Sabiiti, the LC2 Chairperson of Nyakinengo, many school-aged children are still at home, engaged in domestic work such as farming and animal rearing. She criticized the common mentality among parents who refuse to send children to school before they finish household chores. Sabiiti urged parents, especially in hard-to-reach areas like Nyakinengo, to prioritize education for their children to improve literacy rates and secure their future. She also advised against frequently changing schools, as it affects learners’ performance and mindset.
Barugahare Johnson, the Kahoko Parish Councillor, expressed his frustration after conducting a village survey. He was disheartened to find children, who should be in school, working in gardens and tending to livestock. When he questioned parents, they cited reasons such as avoiding school sanitation duties at the start of the term and needing their children for farm work. Johnson urged parents to send their children to school without delay.
Meanwhile, Kigaaga Parish Councillor Karamuzi Fred highlighted another major concern—rising school fees and additional charges in both government UPE and private schools. He noted that many parents have abandoned UPE schools due to poor performance and inadequate infrastructure. Fred also criticized the government’s salary policies for teachers, stating that unfair wages are damaging the education sector.
Nyakagyeme LC5 Councillor Alex Tumuramye acknowledged that parents are struggling with school fees due to widespread financial hardships. However, he reminded them that education is the most valuable investment they can give their children for a brighter future.
Reports from the area indicate that it has become a common practice for learners to delay reporting to school for two to three weeks at the start of each term due to persistent beliefs and myths.
