EDITOR
The Ntungamo District Schools Inspector, Robert Tuzarirwe, has criticized what he described as poor parenting practices that allow children to dictate family decisions, warning that the trend is contributing to indiscipline and financial strain among families.
Tuzarirwe made the remarks during a thanksgiving ceremony held to celebrate Uganda Certificate of Education (UCE) results at Rwentobo High School in Rushenyi County, Ntungamo District.
He noted that some parents are increasingly allowing their children to determine major decisions, including the choice of schools, despite not contributing financially to those decisions.
“When parents simply follow what their children want, even when the children have not worked for it, the community risks running on a freewheel, which increases lawlessness,” Tuzarirwe said.
He emphasized that while parents should engage their children in discussions about decisions affecting their future, they must remain firm and provide guidance to avoid making financially and socially straining choices.
The schools inspector also urged parents to reconsider enrolling students in non-technical courses immediately after O’Level. He argued that the current job market demands individuals with greater maturity and academic development, which he said is better attained after completing A’Level studies.
According to Tuzarirwe, strengthening academic foundations can improve students’ competitiveness and preparedness for the evolving employment landscape.
The head teacher of Rwentobo High School, Vicent Mubangizi Barugahare, echoed similar concerns, saying laissez-faire parenting has made school management more challenging.
He observed that some students attempt to manage themselves at school in the same way they do at home, complicating efforts to enforce discipline and academic standards.
Rwentobo High School was founded by John Mugisha Katekyeza, the current Vice Chancellor of Bishop Stuart University, alongside Mr. Boaz Muhimbura. The school operates under a public-private partnership arrangement.
During the event, parents also appealed to school administrators to regulate expensive leavers’ parties, arguing that such celebrations distract students from their studies and negatively affect academic performance.
They called for stricter controls to ensure that end-of-school activities do not undermine learners’ educational outcomes.
The thanksgiving ceremony celebrated the school’s UCE performance while providing a platform for stakeholders to reflect on parenting, discipline, and the future of education in Ntungamo District.
