MOE challenges Layibi over underutilised shs800m swimming pool

The Ministry of Education and Sports has challenged the administration of St. Joseph’s College Layibi to make better use of the school’s swimming pool facility for talent development.

Sam Odongo, Assistant Commissioner for Physical Education, raised the concern recently while inspecting facilities ahead of the 2026 National Ball Games II and Athletics, to be hosted at Sacred Heart Girls’ SS in Gulu city.

Odongo expressed dissatisfaction with the school’s management for underutilizing the facility, which cost the government shs800 million and was intended to support grassroots talent development.

“St. Joseph’s College Layibi is one of the government-aided schools in the country that benefited from a swimming facility, but since it was established, no athlete from this school has been presented for national competition,” Odongo said.

He noted that the Ministry of Education and Sports has undertaken several infrastructure projects, including the construction of swimming pools, to improve sports facilities and nurture talent. He added that beneficiary schools must ensure the facilities are properly maintained and actively used for that purpose.

David Opala, the sports coordinator at St. Joseph’s College Layibi, acknowledged the school’s failure to utilize the facility, citing lack of funds.

“We are grateful to the ministry for this facility, and we have tried our best to keep the swimming pool in good shape. However, the school does not have finances to hire experts in the field,” Opala explained.

He said the school is unable to purchase swimming equipment or hire a professional coach to guide athletes and build their technical skills. For now, the school focuses more on football, athletics, basketball, and cricket.

Despite being underutilized by St. Joseph’s, the pool has become a vital training ground for Sacred Heart Girls’ School. Sacred Heart’s swimmers train three times a week, with a focus on identifying and developing talented girls for national competitions.

Hellen Lamunu, Headteacher of Sacred Heart Girls’ SS, said the school is determined to make a strong impression at the 2026 National Swimming Competition and aims to present athletes for the FEASSSA Games in Morogoro, Tanzania.

“If we want success in swimming, we must start at the grassroots. That’s where real talent is discovered and shaped,” Lamunu said.

She noted that while some swimmers show natural ability, identifying true potential requires trained coaches and structured development systems. To support this, the school has hired a professional swimming coach to guide the athletes and build their technical skills.