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As the first term of the 2024 academic year commences on Monday, following the National Education Institutions calendar, numerous schools in Rukungiri are reporting a lower-than-expected turnout of learners.
School administrators have noted that a significant number of learners opted to stay home on the opening day. The reasons for this absence remain uncertain, with possibilities including financial constraints related to school fees or the adverse weather conditions, particularly heavy rains experienced in various parts of the country.
Lydia Tushemerirwe, the Rukungiri district inspector of schools, conducted visits to different schools in Buyanja and Kebisoni sub-counties. During her visits, she observed the presence of teachers but noticed a conspicuous absence of learners.
Mary Mariat.Kemigisha, the headmistress of Rushasha Vocational Secondary School in Nyakagyeme sub-county, attributed the low turnout to heavy rains. Despite this setback, she remains optimistic that learners will gradually start attending classes throughout the week.
Arineitwe, the headteacher of Kyabugashe High School, reported that on the first day, their school witnessed a moderate turnout. However, he emphasized that over 400 learners have already reported, with expectations of more students arriving during the week.
Arineitwe appealed to parents to ensure their children attend school promptly, emphasizing that lessons have commenced, and teachers are already back at their respective schools.
According to the Ministry of Education and Sports, the current term, which began today, will span 89 days, concluding officially on May 3rd, 2024.
