Bishop Asiimwe Urges Teachers to Shun Absenteeism as Schools Reopen

Rukungiri: As schools reopen for first term 2026, the Bishop of North Kigezi Diocese, Rt. Rev. Onesimus Asiimwe, has urged teachers to remain committed to their work, noting that cases of absenteeism are on the rise, especially in public schools.

Bishop Asiimwe made the call on February 10, during an interview with our news reporter at his office at the diocesan headquarters located on Kinyasano Hill in Rukungiri Municipality.

The Bishop noted that teacher absenteeism in government schools has greatly affected learners, yet these pupils are expected to compete with students from other schools at higher levels of education such as universities, and later in the job market. He emphasized that since teachers expect their salaries at the end of every month, they should also think about the future of their learners.

CUE IN….BISHOP ON TEACHERS….RR//ENG

Bishop Asiimwe also advised parents to give equal attention to the education of the boy child just as they do for the girl child. He explained that girls have recently outperformed boys at different levels of education, yet women in professions such as medicine, law, politics, and other leadership positions also need responsible men as husbands.

The Bishop further reminded learners that every level of education comes with new challenges and responsibilities. He encouraged them to remain focused, remember why they are in school, and keep their future dreams in mind. He stressed that education is the greatest equalizer in life.

CUE IN… BISHOP ON BOY CHILD EDUCATION… RR//ENG

The Rukungiri LCV Chairperson, Geoffrey Kyomukama has advised parents to enroll their children in schools that match their income levels instead of risking their property by borrowing money from loan lenders to pay school fees.

Kyomukama explained that success in life does not depend on the school one attended, but rather on personal determination and discipline.

CUE IN… LCV CHAIRPERSON… RR

Meanwhile, the Rukungiri Assistant Resident District Commissioner, Kellen Kagisha, encouraged parents who are unable to raise school fees to consider enrolling their children in technical and vocational institutions. She said such schools equip learners with practical skills like carpentry, salon work, welding, among others.

 Kagisha emphasized that parents should not abandon their children due to lack of school fees, but instead guide them toward alternative education pathways that can help them become self-reliant.

 CUE IN… KAGISHA ON SCHOOL FEES… ENG

The Senior Inspector of Schools for Rukungiri Municipality, Juliet Musiimenta, cautioned parents to ensure that children report to school on time, noting that head teachers are ready to receive them. She also reminded school authorities to play their role in educating and guiding learners.