Hoima district commissions school projects worth sh632 million

HOIMA - Hoima District Local Government has commissioned completed school infrastructure projects worth sh632 million, in an effort to enhance education service delivery.

The projects, commissioned by deputy resident district commissioner (RDC) Michael Kyakashari Muramira alongside district political and technical leaders, include a sh133.8 million chain-link fence at Kigorobya Seed Secondary School, a sh119 million two-classroom block, and a sh131 million five-stance pit latrine at Iguru 1 Primary School in Bombo subcounty.

Other works include the renovation of a two-classroom block at sh79 million and a sh28 million borehole at Haibale Primary School in Kisukuma subcounty.

Kibengeya Primary School in Kapapi subcounty also benefited from a sh114 million two-classroom block and a sh27 million borehole.

According to Hoima district communication officer Alex Tumuhimbise, the projects were funded by the Ministry of Education under the School Facilities Grants (SFG) programme.

He noted that the developments demonstrate the government’s commitment to improving the learning environment in schools and ensuring better academic performance.

While commissioning the projects at Kigorobya Seed School, deputy RDC Kyakashari urged school management to increase vigilance and address the growing problem of vandalism targeting school infrastructure and other properties.

He pointed out that, despite the government investing heavily in these facilities, unknown individuals continue to vandalise property, citing theft of lightning arresters, windows, doors, and metal goalposts.

Kyakashari called on police and other security agencies to investigate and apprehend those responsible for the acts of vandalism.

He expressed satisfaction with the construction of the chain-link fence around Kigorobya Seed Secondary School, saying it would help protect school property and ensure the safety of students and staff.

"I urge the school management to increase security vigilance and also take security guards for training. Police should have all suspects arrested and prosecuted for vandalising school property,” said Kyakashari.

He also emphasised the need for continued support for the NRM government, which he praised for its consistent and sustainable service delivery. He urged all beneficiaries to safeguard the new infrastructure for the long term.

At the same event, Hoima district vice chairperson Hellen Mulumba warned parents against neglecting their responsibilities, especially in the face of increasing school dropouts and absenteeism.

“The government has played its role. The task is now with the parents. They should do their cardinal duty of ensuring that their children are at school, and should provide them with scholastic materials, uniforms, books and pens, as well as food,” said Mulumba, who represented District Chairperson Uthuman Mugisha Mubarak.

Suddath Mbabazi, headteacher of Iguru 1 Primary School, which has over 890 pupils, commended the government for funding the construction of the two-classroom block, saying it arrived at a time when the school was struggling with congestion.

He said the lack of space had been interrupting the learning process, but the new block had brought significant relief.

Brian Atugonza, who represented Hoima chief administrative officer Emmanuel Sempala, urged parents to take advantage of the new infrastructure by enrolling their children in school.

He also encouraged headteachers to intensify supervision of staff to address absenteeism and ensure teachers fulfil their responsibilities.