Summary:
- She emphasized that an imbalance in educational support could create social disparities, stressing the importance of nurturing boys to become empowered members of society.
RUBANDA: The Rubanda District Woman Member of Parliament hopeful Mrs. Jacqueline Katabazi has urged parents to provide equal educational opportunities for both boys and girls, stating that true gender equality requires access to resources and support for both genders.
Speaking as the Guest of Honor at a weekend fundraising event for the renovation of Rubanda Mixed Primary School, Katabazi expressed concern over the gender imbalance among the pupils.
Addressing community members and local leaders, she highlighted that a majority of the school’s pupils were girls, a situation she warned could lead to future social consequences.
“Where are the boys?” Katabazi asked. “If we continue on this path, we risk creating a generation where educated women marry men with limited educational opportunities. I urge parents to ensure that boys are equally encouraged and supported in their educational journeys.”
She emphasized that an imbalance in educational support could create social disparities, stressing the importance of nurturing boys to become empowered members of society.
While commending efforts to empower girls, Katabazi noted the equal importance of recognizing and supporting boys’ potential.
“Focusing solely on girls is not enough,” she added. “Empowered girls will grow up to interact with boys who also need to be prepared for life’s responsibilities. Both genders must be equipped to meet each other as equals.”
Encouraging students to prioritize their education, Katabazi advised Rubanda Mixed Primary School pupils to remain disciplined, study hard, and pursue their dreams.
“If you want to be a doctor, lawyer, priest, engineer, or pilot, it starts with discipline and dedication. Stay focused, work hard, and pray. With these principles, anything is possible,” she told the attentive young audience.
The school’s Head Teacher, Sr. Ruth Ahimbisibwe, praised Mrs. Katabazi for her consistent support, noting her contributions to various school initiatives over the years.
Mrs. Katabazi is set to challenge the incumbent Woman MP for Rubanda District, Hon. Prossy Akampurira Begumisa Mbabazi, who recently faced scrutiny over a scandal involving self-awarded taxpayer funds amounting to UGX 1.7 billion for service awards. This revelation has raised questions about Mbabazi’s integrity, potentially strengthening her challengers’ positions in the upcoming election.
