Collapsing classroom injures Lira pupils

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LIRA CITY — Panic and screams filled a Primary Five classroom at Alasa Islamic School in Lira City when part of the structure suddenly gave away, sending concrete debris through the ceiling and injuring several pupils.

Territorial Police in Lira City East Division have opened a case of rash and negligent acts causing injuries following the collapse at the privately owned school located in Ireda West Cell, Ireda West Ward.

According to the North Kyoga Region Police Spokesperson, Patrick Jimmy Okema, the incident occurred on April 7, 2026, at around 12:50pm during a science lesson by teacher Adam Ocen.

Initial reports indicate that when he heard a loud bang as concrete blocks fell onto the roof and broke through the ceiling, he quickly ordered pupils to evacuate. However, as the children scrambled for safety, more debris continued to fall, leaving several injured in the chaos.

Two pupils aged 10 and 11 suffered severe head injuries, nose bleeding and bruised hands, respectively, while six others aged 10 -13 are nursing minor injuries.

Police officers led by the Lira City East Division Liaison Officer, IP Ayepa Michael, swiftly responded to the scene and conducted a preliminary assessment. Their findings point to serious structural deficiencies.

“The affected classroom was poorly constructed, with weak support structures and substandard ceiling installation that does not meet acceptable engineering standards,” Okema said.

Further inspection has since revealed that the Primary Two classroom ceiling is sagging and at risk of collapse, while visible cracks run across the building

Scene of Crime Officers documented the site, and the school director has since been arrested to assist with investigations. Several staff at the site declined to talk to the media.

Alasa Islamic School, established in 2019, operates from Primary One to Primary Seven with a staff of 18 teachers, including four Sheikh teachers who handle Quran instruction. The school serves both Somali and indigenous pupils in Lira City under a day section arrangement. 

Authorities have now raised an alarm over the safety of the entire facility, recommending immediate temporary closure to protect lives and allow for urgent reconstruction under the supervision of the City Engineer.

The incident adds to growing concerns over unregulated school infrastructure in urban centres, where safety standards are often overlooked—putting young learners at risk.