Uganda to Renovate 120 Traditional Secondary Schools

In an effort to bolster the nation’s educational infrastructure, the Ministry of Education and Sports has revealed plans to renovate 120 traditional secondary schools. This significant undertaking seeks to bring these older institutions up to par with recently established seed schools, many of which boast modern facilities.

The announcement came from State Minister for Education and Sports, Hon. Peter Ogwang, during a parliamentary session. He was responding to concerns raised by Hon. Peter Obong Acuda regarding the deteriorating state of many traditional schools. Acuda highlighted that outdated structures and inadequate facilities are causing these schools to lose students to their more modern counterparts, despite the demands of the new Competency-Based Curriculum which requires well-equipped laboratories and libraries.

Minister Ogwang acknowledged these challenges, confirming that 120 schools built between the 1960s and 1980s have been prioritized for renovation. Among those slated for upgrades are Comboni College, Lango College, St. Catherine Girls School, Dr. Obote College, Adwari SS, and Aloi SS.

Furthermore, the government intends to collaborate with development partners to extend the renovation program to more schools beyond the initial 120. This collaborative approach aims to maximize resources and impact.

During the same session, Hon. Gonzaga Ssewungu, representing Kalungu West, urged the ministry to also consider the critical state of Universal Primary Education (UPE) schools. He pointed out that many UPE schools are in condemned conditions and often lack basic amenities, including proper sanitation facilities, while relying solely on capitation grants.

Minister Ogwang advised that resources for primary schools are typically channeled through local governments and encouraged Members of Parliament to actively participate in their district councils to oversee these allocations and ensure school improvements.

Source: Parliament of Uganda