The Ministry of Education and Sports has cautioned against conducting teaching and coaching sessions for learners during holidays as the first term of 2024 draws to a close.
Commencing on February 5, 2024, term one is scheduled to conclude on Friday, May 2, 2024, leaving learners with just one week of vacation.
Numerous educational institutions have adopted the practice of keeping learners at school to ensure their continued engagement with studies even during holiday periods.
Joyce Moriku Kadacu, the Minister of State for Primary Education, has sternly warned schools against this practice.
“The Ministry of Education and Sports will not tolerate holiday teaching and coaching for children in any school. Please adhere to the regulations and standards set by the Ministry. Our laws, regulations, and guidelines do not permit holiday teachings. So, exercise caution,” she stated during a press briefing in Kampala.
Kaducu also urged parents to pay close attention to their daughters to prevent teenage pregnancies during holidays.
“Parents, pay special attention to the girl child to avoid teenage pregnancy and early marriage, as these occurrences often happen at home under your supervision. Ensure the boy child is also counseled on reproductive health and rights, promoting abstinence. As our children return home, let’s uphold Christian values, cultural norms, morals, and social etiquette for them. Ensure parents supervise their children’s phone and social media usage to instill discipline.”
Despite term one proceeding smoothly, some schools in Busia district experienced fire outbreaks resulting in loss of life, injuries, and property damage.
Additionally, there was an outbreak of red eye conjunctivitis during the term.
“We did not encounter any significant health challenges in schools apart from common illnesses like flu, cough, and malaria, which were appropriately addressed. No strikes were reported in schools, indicating that our learners are disciplined and favor dialogue as a means of conflict resolution. We sincerely appreciate school administrators, teachers, and learners for their dedication to their schools and country.”
Although term one concluded successfully, the Ministry urged all school administrators to ensure compliance with minimum standards and basic requirements, especially in boarding facilities.
“Schools with boarding facilities that fail to meet minimum standards, please rectify the deficiencies before the commencement of term two. Pay particular attention to sleeping arrangements and spacing, sanitation facilities, fire prevention equipment, and lightning arrestors, among other aspects.”
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