Minister Balaam’s Visit Sparks Indiscipline Concerns at Butaleja Schools

By Ambrose Wanagoli

The visit of Minister of Local Government Balaam Barugahara has sparked concerns over alleged growing indiscipline among learners in Butaleja District, with school administrators warning that some students may have misinterpreted his directives on teachers’ conduct as a licence to disregard school rules.

The Headteacher of St. Mary’s Secondary School Kapisa, John Wabwire, raised the alarm on Monday, accusing learners of increasingly disregarding school routines, arriving late for lessons and leaving school early.

Wabwire made the remarks while addressing parents, teachers, members of the Board of Governors and other stakeholders during the school’s Annual General Meeting.

He attributed the alleged deterioration in discipline to what he described as a misunderstanding of Minister Balaam Barugahara’s intervention in school affairs, particularly his directive against illegal fees and his warning to teachers over their conduct.

“Dear parents, teachers, school board and other stakeholders! Balaam’s coming has caused indiscipline among learners. These children have no time for books, they come late and retire early,” Wabwire said.

He expressed concern that some learners were reportedly making provocative statements suggesting that the minister had come to liberate them, raising questions about how they understood his intervention.

The headteacher also cast doubt on the academic preparedness of candidates who had sat their examinations, claiming that many had spent considerable time relaxing instead of concentrating on their studies.

He appealed to parents to work closely with teachers and school administrators to restore discipline and strengthen learners’ commitment to academic work.

Teacher shortage threatens academic standards

Wabwire further sounded the alarm over a severe shortage of teaching staff at St. Mary’s Secondary School, revealing that the institution currently has only 12 teachers to serve a population of 1,220 learners.

He said the situation could worsen, with two teachers reportedly expected to retire later this year.

The headteacher also expressed concern over the absence of an English language teacher who reportedly developed a mental health condition, saying no replacement had been provided.

According to Wabwire, the school requires at least 57 teachers to effectively manage its growing student population, warning that the staffing gap presents a significant challenge to effective teaching and learning.

Balaam’s directive on illegal school fees

Minister Balaam Barugahara recently directed teachers to stop imposing illegal charges on learners, warning that those who defy the directive risk arrest and interdiction.

However, the minister’s intervention has apparently triggered differing interpretations among some learners, according to Wabwire, who wants parents and education stakeholders to help clarify the distinction between protecting learners’ rights and maintaining discipline in schools.

S.6 candidates begin examinations

Meanwhile, Senior Six candidates across Butaleja District successfully commenced their examinations on Monday, with learners sitting Mathematics and History papers.

During a fact-finding visit to Busaba Seed Secondary School, St. Mary’s Secondary School, Mulagi Girls Secondary School and Nakwasi Seed Secondary School, candidates were observed sitting their respective papers.

The Headteacher of Busaba Seed Secondary School, Zebron Wangoa, and his counterpart at Nakwasi Seed Secondary School, Juma Mulesa, cautioned candidates against examination malpractice, urging them to remain focused and avoid cheating.

The two headteachers reminded candidates that Advanced Level education is an important stage in determining their academic and professional futures.

They further encouraged learners to approach their examinations with determination and aim for university education, noting that strong academic qualifications could improve their prospects during future job recruitment.

As Butaleja schools navigate concerns over discipline, staffing shortages and academic performance, parents and education stakeholders face renewed calls to work together to safeguard the learning environment and improve educational outcomes.