By Gloria Nakajubi

The Minister of State for Higher Education John Muyingo has cautioned parents and students to be on the lookout for fraudsters who claim to offer scholarships in higher institutions of learning.

"Many of them are pretending to have donor connections and others are setting up fake schools just to con parents and guardians. After students have paid registration fee the school or organization ceases," Muyingo said.

The Minister was presiding over the official launch of the construction of a shs270m classroom block at Wakatayi Secondary School in Zirobwe, Luweero district on Wednesday.

He said that these fraudsters are taking advantage of the parents' ignorance especially those in rural areas to fraud them of their hard earned money.

"Parents should know that not everything is going to be given to them free of charge but rather should take up the responsibility of supporting their children especially those who do not qualify for the various government scholarships in higher institutions," he said.

Muyingo also revealed that the NRM government is going to introduce a student's loan scheme starting next year which will be accessed by private students covering their tuition fees in both government and private institutions.

"In a bid to fulfill the NRM manifesto in line with education for all, the government will effect next year start giving out money to students in higher institutions and they will be expected to pay back a year after completing their various courses, "he revealed.

He also urged parents to continue supporting their children at school by providing lunch since this has also been one of the reason for the poor performance in exams.

The new headmaster of Wakatayi Secondary School appreciated government for the support offered to the school that included textbooks for the school library, computers and installation of solar power.