STELLA T
Parents and local leaders in Rubanga Parish, Buyanja Sub-county, Rukungiri District, have expressed serious concern over the inadequate sanitation facilities and poor toilet conditions at Rubanga Primary School and Kishonga Primary School. They fear that the unsanitary environment poses a high risk of disease outbreaks among the pupils.
Arinaitwe Lovien, a parent at Rubanga Primary School, said the learning environment is not conducive for the pupils due to the limited number of toilet facilities. She noted that the situation becomes even more dangerous during the rainy season, as children are exposed to health risks while trying to relieve themselves. She appealed to the relevant authorities to urgently intervene and protect the health of their children.
Tumwebaze Boaz, a parent at Kishonga Primary School, echoed similar concerns, saying the current toilet structures compromise the privacy of both teachers and pupils. He stated that the poor state of sanitation is affecting the overall learning environment and called upon leaders and the Ministry of Education to intervene before the situation worsens.
Beinomugisha Phiona, the area councillor for Rubanga Parish, acknowledged the challenges facing both schools. She called on parents, local leaders, and relevant authorities to work together to construct more toilet facilities and improve the overall infrastructure.
In response, Agaba Emmy Rubondo, the LCIII Chairperson for Buyanja Sub-county, confirmed the gravity of the situation. He noted that the existing toilet facilities are too few for the student population of over 800. He also pointed out that the schools lack sufficient infrastructure in general. Rubondo emphasized that the sub-county has limited funding, which makes it difficult to address all school needs simultaneously. He mentioned that in the previous financial year, the sub-county managed to support the schools by providing desks.
Rubondo appealed to higher authorities, including the LCV Chairperson of Rukungiri District and Members of Parliament, to lobby for support and provide a timely intervention to improve the condition of the schools.
