Acting Major General Felix Kulayigye, spokesperson for Defence and Military, has highlighted concerns regarding the decreasing student enrollments in Bukomansimbi District’s government schools. He attributes this to parental disengagement with free educational programs.
Concerns Over Enrollment Trends
During the inauguration of new classrooms at St. Maurice Mixed Primary School and St. Matia Mulumba Budda Primary School, Kulayigye voiced concerns. Despite new infrastructure, attendance rates remain low. He shared troubling statistics: only 26 students at St. Maurice and 46 at St. Matia Mulumba participated in the Primary Leaving Examinations (PLE) last year.
Economic Paradox in Education Choices
Kulayigye questioned the community’s preference for expensive private schools over free government programs, especially in economically challenged areas like Masaka. He recalled his time at Kitaasa Primary School, where enrollment was once high enough to have separate classes for boys and girls. Today’s mixed-gender classes stem from declining numbers.
The Role of Leadership in Education
Kulayigye emphasized that government schools provide quality education. He urged local leaders to promote these institutions among parents. He challenged them to investigate why enrollments are falling and to find sustainable solutions. True leadership means solving problems, not just observing them, he noted.
The ceremony, led by Minister for Luweero-Rwenzori Alice Kaboyo, marked the completion of the school infrastructure projects. It symbolized progress in enhancing local education.
