Closing schools illogical, says DP

Sep 16, 2008

THE Democratic Party (DP) has criticised the education ministry for closing about 400 schools in the central region, saying it was a rushed decision.

By Moses Mulondo

THE Democratic Party (DP) has criticised the education ministry for closing about 400 schools in the central region, saying it was a rushed decision.

The ministry wants 398 schools closed for lack of licences, unqualified head teachers and poor structures.

According to the ministry’s spokesperson, Aggrey Kibenge, the schools did not meet the operational, safety and security standards.

“Even if they did not have the required facilities, it was not logical to close these schools in the last term of the academic year. It is a hassle to the students and parent,” Ssebaana told journalists yesterday.

He asked the ministry to explain why all the schools that were closed were in the Buganda region.

“We doubt the efficiency of the inspection exercise. We are aware that many of these schools that were closed had ample facilities for operation,” Ssebaana said. He appealed to the ministry to reconsider their decision.

“These schools should be given a grace period to complete the academic year as they install all the required facilities. The ministry should take into consideration the high poverty levels in the country,” Ssebaana appealed.

The party also hailed Dr. Jack Luyombya for resigning as Mulago Hospital chairman after the Government failed to avail the necessary facilities to the hospital.

DP officials also called for the dissolving of the current Electoral Commission (EC).

“We are aware that the majority of the EC officials are NRM party members,” said DP deputy campaign director, Mukasa Mbidde.

Mbidde, who is also the Uganda Young Democrats chairman, said the party had begun preparations for the 2011 elections.

“Tomorrow, we are embarking on a tour of the 29 districts in eastern Uganda to promote our agenda for 2011,” Mbidde said.

(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({});