Kakoki Public Primary School on Verge of Collapse in Ntungamo

Summary:

• Established in the 1970s by Kakoki Hiika Catholic Church, the school initially offered education up to Primary 2. It was taken over by the government in 2004 and has since expanded to provide education up to Primary 7. The school serves a significant population from Nyabushenyi and Nyabihoko Sub Counties.

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NTUNGAMO: Kakoki Public Primary School, a government-aided institution located in Bukamba village, Nyabushenyi Sub County, Ntungamo District, is on the brink of collapse, endangering the lives of both students and teachers.

Established in the 1970s by Kakoki Hiika Catholic Church, the school initially offered education up to Primary 2. It was taken over by the government in 2004 and has since expanded to provide education up to Primary 7. The school serves a significant population from Nyabushenyi and Nyabihoko Sub Counties.

The semi-permanent buildings housing the Nursery, Primary One, and Primary Two classes, constructed by parents using mud and wattle over 20 years ago, are deteriorating rapidly. These classrooms lack doors and windows, with parts of the walls having already collapsed. During rainy weather, students are forced to seek refuge under desks or run to Kakoki Hiika Church for safety.

The only permanent structure on the premises, established by the government, accommodates the school’s main offices and the Primary 6 and 7 classrooms. However, it also requires substantial renovations. The building lacks window panes and doors, and the walls and floors need repainting and re-cementing due to dust accumulation.

Additionally, the school faces a severe shortage of teachers. With a total enrollment of 252 students and only six teachers, the staff is stretched thin. Some teachers are not government-paid and rely on support from parents. According to a teacher who spoke anonymously, there are no housing facilities for staff, forcing them to commute approximately 25 kilometers daily. This situation contributes to late arrivals and impedes effective teaching, especially during the rainy season.

Concerned parents such as Julius Karira, Catherine Ahebwa, and Sophan Agaba are urging the Ntungamo District Education Department to intervene and construct new classrooms to safeguard their children from the risks posed by the deteriorating structures.

Ntungamo District LCV Chairman Sam Muchunguzi acknowledged the challenges facing the school and stated that authorities are planning a visit to assess the situation and determine how to address the issues promptly.