As the first term for the academic year 2024 approaches, the Oyam District local government’s Department of Education has threatened to ban private schools with poor structures this year.
Their report states that some developers tend to open private schools, including nursery schools and primary schools, but their structures are always risky for the learners.
Beatrice Okello, the Secretary of Education in Oyam District local government, says other developers with only the interest of opening schools often construct temporary structures made of timber, makoko, mat, and mud bricks without even including lightning arresters, posing a risk to the lives of learners.
She emphasizes that this year, such schools will not be allowed to operate in Oyam District. All private schools must comply with the education guidelines for operating schools, including constructing good school structures fully equipped with learning materials and providing a safe environment.
In Oyam District last year, over 120 private schools were registered, with 109 being UPE (Universal Primary Education) schools. However, more private schools are expected to open this year.
