Summary:
- Angela Atim Mudong, the District Education Officer (DEO) of Katakwi, explained that the 22 community schools were established by the returning community 4-5 decades ago.
KATAKWI: In an effort to bring education services closer to the people of Katakwi, who were displaced during the Karimojong resurgence, the District Education Office has requested the coding of 22 community schools.
Angela Atim Mudong, the District Education Officer (DEO) of Katakwi, explained that the 22 community schools were established by the returning community 4-5 decades ago. Their return led to an increase in educational and other social services.
Atim emphasized that coding the schools is crucial to providing easier access to education for students. Many school-aged children in these areas currently have to walk 6-8 kilometers to attend school.
She also highlighted security concerns for young children under six years of age, citing two recent cases where learners were shot with arrows by suspected Karimojong warriors.
During her visit on October 12, 2024, Atim appealed to the Ministry of Education and Sports to support the coding of the 22 community schools.
“The community of Okulonyo Sub-county, Okuliak Parish, which consists of the seven villages of Okuliak, Akoboi, Amaratoit, Alukubiong, Obule, Aterai, and Amendera, has expressed the need for a local community primary school to be coded,” Atim said.
She further explained that due to the distance, children typically begin school at the age of eight, which exposes them to safety risks.
In response to this concern, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Education and Sports, Kadrace Turyagyenda, promised that the government would address the issue, recognizing it as a national concern.
The PS also urged teachers to focus on the holistic development of learners, highlighting the importance of nurturing their bodies, minds, souls, character, and personalities. She underscored the need for teachers to adhere to the code of conduct and take full responsibility for the growth of the children under their care.
Turyagyenda advised students to avoid early marriages and encouraged parents to bear the responsibility of providing affordable educational materials.
“I will discuss with my team at the Ministry of Education about coding the schools and recruiting teachers before the end of this year,” she added.
Meanwhile, the Vice President of Uganda, Rtd Maj Jessica Rose Alupo Epel, commended the teachers for their dedication and role as the backbone of Uganda’s education system.
She urged them to continue leading their efforts in shaping the younger generation.
During the same function, the Vice President fulfilled her pledge by donating three printers one for each county to help facilitate the printing of exams in the district.
