Soroti official warns teachers against sexual misconduct with young athletes

Soroti City Assistant Resident Commissioner, Stephen Omoding, has issued a stern warning to games teachers and coaches in Teso secondary schools to avoid engaging in sexual relationships with young athletes.

Omoding’s remarks came during his interaction with games teachers and coaches at the closure of the USSSA Teso Zone Symposium, held at Soroti Secondary School over the weekend.

He condemned the unethical behaviour of teachers who engage in inappropriate relationships with young athletes.

“My dear games masters, I hope the information and experiences shared today will help you avoid being implicated by the law for engaging in unwanted relationships with young athletes, who are like your own children,” Omoding stated.

His warning follows an incident last year where a male games teacher was arrested in a lodge with a young female athlete during the USSSA National Ball Games hosted at Teso College Aloet in Soroti City.

The symposium, which brought together 300 games teachers, was organized by USSSA Teso Zone to unveil the 2025 zonal sports activities.

John Robert Osuu, USSSA Teso Zone Chairperson, emphasized the importance of using age-appropriate athletes during championships. He warned headteachers and sports masters to adhere to the guidelines to avoid legal and ethical violations.

“Using the right-aged athletes during championships will minimize complaints and ensure compliance with the law, which was endorsed by the President of Uganda, Yoweri Kaguta Museveni,” Osuu said.

“Headteachers must ensure that athletes representing their schools at the school, district, and zonal levels are genuine. Failure to follow these guidelines will lead to embarrassment for the school, the athlete, and the team leader,” he added.

Osuu also urged school administrators to prioritize the Ministry of Education and Sports calendar, allowing learners ample time to participate in sporting activities and socialize with peers.

Peter Okwii, Teso Zone General Secretary, highlighted the importance of nurturing students’ talents alongside academics. He noted that every learner possesses unique abilities that teachers should help develop.

“While schools are doing a commendable job in educating children, they should also focus on developing talents in areas such as singing, athletics, volleyball, netball, and football. If a student struggles academically, their talent can become a source of livelihood,” Okwii said.

However, he encouraged games teachers to strike a balance, ensuring students value education as much as co-curricular activities. “While sports can be a source of income, education remains a critical foundation for their future,” Okwii emphasized.