School Ordered to Fund Education After Denying Boarding to Student with Albinism Over Superstition

A Kampala-based school has been mandated by the Equal Opportunities Commission (EOC) to pay for a student with albinism’s education until completion. This decision comes after the school allegedly denied the learner, who had been at the institution since nursery, a place in the boarding section in Primary Five.

School administrators reportedly cited superstitious beliefs, including the harmful myth that individuals with albinism can transform into lions at night and pose a danger to other students. This led to the family being offered the choice of the child remaining a day scholar or transferring to another school.

The EOC intervened after the family filed a complaint, describing the school’s actions as blatant discrimination. EOC spokesperson Yusuf Muziransa stated that the school’s administration held unfounded beliefs rooted in misinformation about albinism.

“We told the school that this child has a disability and should be treated like any other learner. Because the child had already become aware of the reasons for the discrimination, we directed the school to pay their fees until they complete their education,” Mr. Muziransa explained. The learner is now in Senior Two and benefiting from this arrangement.

While the EOC views this as discrimination, police have indicated that the matter does not constitute a criminal offense, as schools retain discretion over boarding accommodations. Nevertheless, the EOC emphasizes that such actions violate Uganda’s laws on equal opportunity and inclusion.

This incident highlights the persistent prejudice faced by people with albinism and underscores the need for continued public education to dispel harmful stereotypes and ensure inclusive practices in educational institutions.

Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/school-forced-to-pay-fees-after-rejecting-learner-with-albinism-from-boarding-section-5487830