Schools re-open under tight conditions

REOPENING OF SCHOOLS

Schools across the country have re-opened on Thursday, with candidate classes (in secondary/primary) and final year students (tertiary institutions) reporting first.

The schools were closed on March 18 following the outbreak of COVID-19. Amidst hardship, parents are now marshalling all efforts to ensure their children return to school.

Joseph Ssendikwanawa, a father of two girls in Kiboga town council, Kiboga district, said the return of students to school is a nerve-wracking situation.

He said most parents planned to send children back to school in January and not October.

"I have two candidates who have outgrown their uniforms. I now have to buy new sets for them. But where is the money?" he said.

"We need adequate preparation. It is not just about the fees. There are many other incidentals," Ssendikwanawa said.

He also urged the Government to supply face masks to schools.

Vincent Nkotanyi, whose daughters are in Senior Four at Saviour Secondary School in Kiboga district, said he will take a loan to pay the school fees.

"We are confused because there is no money. We needed more time to plan," he said.

Eria Kitakule, the director Saviour Secondary School, said they were cleared to operate after they raised some money to buy masks, soap, temperature guns and sanitiser.

Robinson Ssekankya, the headteacher of Bamusuuta Senior Secondary School in Kiboga town council, said although they are in financial distress, they have tried to buy most items.

The headmistress of Kibubura Girls' School in Ibanda district, Celia Amanya, said the school is ready to receive students despite a few challenges.

The school expects 129 students in Senior Four and 50 in Senior Six.

The total population at school is expected to be 230, including teaching and non-teaching staff.

Amanya said they have been cleared to open.

Amos Mugisha, the director of studies at school, said they have bought a sanitisers and students will be well-distanced in class.

School in Iganga, Daniel Okoth, the headmaster, said the inspection team turned up two days ago to assess the institute's readiness.

"We have the fence, spacious classrooms and other necessities. The handwashing spots are equally available," Okoth said.

He said the inspection team is yet to give them a certificate of compliance as a mandatory requirement for allowing children back into school.

"We believe our certificate would be ready by this afternoon," he said.

Okoth said if they get no communication, he would follow up the matter at the district headquarters.

Esther Nandase, the headmistress of Buckley High School, disclosed that the inspection was done successfully and they have most of the requirements.

"The dormitories have been rearranged to observe social distance. The school is fenced and we have an isolation room, among others," Nandase said.

Baker Kasadhakawo, the district education officer, clarified that the inspection team had to first meet and assess all the situation before certificates are drafted.

"By the end of Thursday, the certificates will be availed to all schools," Kasadhakawo said.