Archbishop Kazimba Advocates for Stronger Parental Role in Education

Archbishop Stephen Kazimba Mugalu of the Church of Uganda has criticized existing government policies, asserting they unnecessarily limit parents’ ability to support their children’s academic journeys. Speaking at the 50th anniversary of Namakwa Secondary School in Mukono District, the Archbishop stressed that parents should not be barred from contributing to educational improvements.

“Parents should not be denied the opportunity to support their children’s education. Those who oppose parents’ financial contributions should first tell us where they educate their own children,” Archbishop Kazimba stated, urging parents to remain actively involved by collaborating with school management to foster better learning environments.

Echoing similar sentiments, the Bishop of Mukono Diocese, Rt. Rev. Enos Kitto Kagodo, also decried policies that discourage parental participation, warning of potential negative impacts on student performance. He highlighted that Mukono Diocese has maintained parental involvement in its church-founded schools, linking it to improved academic results.

However, Rashid Kikomeko, the Mukono District Education Officer, clarified that the Education Act permits voluntary parental contributions, such as for school fees and meals, through school governing bodies. He stressed that these contributions must remain optional, and no student should face exclusion for non-payment.

Meanwhile, Namakwa Secondary School’s Head Teacher, Robert Mayemba, addressed the institution’s infrastructure challenges, particularly a shortage of classrooms due to a growing student body. The school, established by parents in 1976, is currently fundraising to construct a new classroom block as part of its 50th-anniversary celebrations.

This initiative aims to mobilize resources to enhance the learning environment for students and commemorate five decades of service to the Mukono community.