Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Uganda Monitor
Published on 2024-03-27 09:31:57
The government has announced plans to expand and rehabilitate all traditional secondary schools across the country to increase enrollment of learners. Ms Ketty Lamaro, the permanent secretary in the Ministry of Education and Sports, disclosed that the initiative will involve constructing new blocks and renovating the old ones to create a more conducive environment for the students.
Ms Lamaro made this announcement during the celebrations marking 118 years since the establishment of Kings College Budo in Wakiso District. She highlighted that Budo is among the target beneficiaries of this initiative. The aim of the rehabilitation is to address the deterioration of infrastructure and accommodate the increased enrollment due to a growing population over the years.
“We were supposed to start last year in July, but due to the passing of the anti-gay law, there was a delay following discussions between the funder and the Ministry of Finance,” Ms Lamaro explained. She also commended Buganda Kingdom for donating land to the school and upholding cultural values among the students.
Ms Lamaro, an alumna of Budo, emphasized the role of former students (Old Budonians) in shaping the reputation and legacy of the school over the past 118 years. She encouraged current students to uphold values of hard work, discipline, and become ambassadors of positive change in their communities.
Education was described as a shared responsibility, with Ms Lamaro challenging parents to support their children for their overall mental and physical well-being. Wilberforce Kityo, the bishop emeritus of Namirembe Diocese, praised the school’s relationship with the Church and applauded the administration for maintaining the school’s standards and values.
However, concerns were raised about land grabbing affecting schools in the country, including Kings College Budo. Bishop Kityo condemned these acts and highlighted the struggles the school faced in a land dispute with a family until it was resolved by the State Minister for Lands last year.
John Fred Kazibwe, the head teacher of the school, emphasized the hard work and commitment required to maintain the school’s standards. Currently, the school has a population of 2,216 students spanning Senior One to Senior Six. Kazibwe expressed gratitude towards the government and the Church for their continuous support to the school.
In conclusion, the government’s initiative to expand and rehabilitate traditional secondary schools is a promising step towards providing a better learning environment for students across the country. With the support of various stakeholders, including former students, parents, and the Church, these efforts aim to enhance educational opportunities and ensure the continuity of excellence in schools like Kings College Budo.
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