Nansana Parents Decry Illegal Fees in Government Schools

Parents in Gombe Division, Nansana Municipality, have voiced strong opposition to what they describe as illegal fees imposed by head teachers in several government primary schools. These charges, reportedly levied for items such as school fees, meals, and even toilet usage, are in direct contravention of the government’s policy of free education in public primary institutions.

The situation came to light during a community Baraza, where residents detailed how children whose parents could not afford these extra payments were being denied access to classrooms and sometimes sent away from school.

Schools specifically named in these allegations include Gombe Primary School, Lwadda A Primary School, and Nabinaka Primary School. The Mayor of Gombe Division, Hawa Mbabazi, confirmed reports of pupils being kept outside classrooms due to unpaid fees.

In response to the outcry, which included claims of parents being asked to pay up to Shs17,000 per term, the Nansana Resident District Commissioner summoned the Municipal Education Officer, Frederick Katongole. Katongole expressed surprise at the allegations and apologized on behalf of the school administrators, promising a thorough investigation.

School administrators offered a different perspective, explaining that some collected funds were used to support school feeding programs and pay for additional teachers hired to supplement government staffing. However, Wakiso District Chairperson, Eng. Ian Kyeyune, strongly warned against the unauthorized hiring of teachers outside the government payroll, emphasizing that the government is responsible for teacher salaries and other operational costs in its schools.

Kyeyune directed immediate cessation of these practices and warned of disciplinary action for any violations of government regulations. The Baraza also addressed other community concerns, including infrastructure, healthcare, and fund management, with local leaders assuring follow-up on all issues raised.

Source: Nile Post