Parents Threaten to Boycott Elections Over Government Neglect of St. Francis Buhunga High School
Rukungiri: Parents of St. Francis Buhunga High School in Buhunga Sub-county, Rukungiri District, have threatened to stop participating in politics, citing government failure to construct any buildings at the school since its establishment in 1984.
This was revealed on June 7, during the school’s annual Parents-Teachers Association (PTA) meeting held at the school premises.
In his address, the school headteacher, Julius Mugisha Kakwara, said the school lacks essential infrastructure, including adequate staff quarters. He noted that 65% of teachers reside outside the school, while those living on campus stay in dilapidated structures built over 40 years ago.
Mugisha further highlighted the shortage of science laboratories, an inadequate library, and poor dormitory conditions for girls. He added that the school buildings, including classrooms and dormitories, are in a dire state. The headteacher himself is currently living in a room that was originally meant to serve as a school canteen.
Out of 41 teachers, only 27 are on the government payroll. Despite these challenges, the school recently ranked second in the district in both UCE and UACE examinations. Mugisha expressed frustration that, unlike other government-aided schools, St. Francis Buhunga has never received a single government-constructed building.
CUE IN…..MUGISHA//RR
A former school board member Augustin Muhumuza, said parents have no reason to participate in the upcoming elections, claiming the government has neglected the school for over 40 years.
Other parents, including Deus Muhwera, Nazario Kabangyira, and Geoffrey Rwamahe a former student of the school echoed the concerns. They said despite their efforts to support the school, the government has let them down, and their contributions have become a burden.
They expressed pain over the fact that students witness teachers living in conditions similar to animal shelters. They appealed to the government to intervene immediately.
CUE IN….PARENTS VOXPOP//RR
Representing the chief guest, the Rukungiri Resident District Commissioner (RDC) Steven Nsubuga Bewayo, the Deputy District Internal Security Officer (D/DISO) Samuel Kamugisha urged parents not to mix politics with school development. He asked for patience, assuring them that the government is aware of the school’s challenges. He promised to report their concerns to the relevant district authorities for consideration in the near future.
At the function, they concluded by awarding the best performers who excelled in the 2024 UCE and UACE exams, including different institutions such as local churches and primary schools that often support the school, as well as teachers whose students performed highly in their subjects.