By Augustine Masereka,
Engagements have commenced among education stakeholders in Kasese to minimize the friction caused by the arrests by the Resident District Commissioner, Lt. Joe Walunsimbi over what he calls failure by some head teachers to operate within the education guidelines.
According to Lt. Walunsimbi, whereas public schools in agreement with parents were free to charge for extra teaching, their consent challenges must not affect the learners negatively.
Zonal and head teachers’ association leaders, the Kasese District Education Office in a meeting at the district headquarters also deliberated on plans against poor performance and creating a conducive environment for learning under the theme, ‘quality education is every stakeholder’s responsibility’.
Mr. Jackson Sibasi, the zone leader for Hima town council schools said most head teachers were working in fear now that some parents and guardians had wrongly perceived the arrests at a time education is competitive and UPE capitation grant not enough to deal with the needs in schools. Mr. Sibasi speaking……
Ms. Paskezia Kabugho, the head teacher Muhokya primary school was also concerned that whereas government had cleared the establishment of nursery schools, the personnel there is funded by parents some of whom do not pay and by law, their children should study. Ms Paskezia speaking……
Mr. George Mayinja, the Kasese District Education Officer asked school head teachers to be professional and adhere to the education guidelines so as not to contradict with the law. Mr. Mayinja speaking……
Mr. Erifaz Muhindi, the Kasese district local council five Chairperson asked head teachers against contradicting interests of other education stakeholders with the law that accommodates levying development fees that must not however negatively affect a learner. Mr. Muhindi speaking……
Lt. Joe Walunsimbi the Kasese Resident District Commissioner says whereas he wasn’t ready to discuss policy, he was prepared to join sensitization tours aimed at guiding parents and guardians about their responsibilities that would see them walk their talk. Lt. Walunsimbi speaking……
He also asked teachers not only to discuss money but sensitize parents about the value of education. END