Mbale, Uganda | THE BLACK EXAMINER | Lwalera government-aided primary school in Bungokho sub-county, Mbale district, has been temporarily closed by authorities following severe damage caused by heavy storms.
Reports indicate that on the afternoon of October 4, 2023, heavy rains struck while most students were in class. Within moments, the school’s roof was ripped off, forcing teachers and students to flee for safety, leaving behind their belongings.
Ronnie Kalemba, one of the students, sustained minor injuries while trying to escape. He lamented that the rain had washed away all their books and pens.
Isaac Mukamba, a schoolteacher, confirmed that all students had been sent home as all classrooms lost their roofs in the storm.
Headmistress Wazamba Robina explained that the most affected classrooms were those for grades P.4 to P.7. With a total of 729 students, only Primary seven and Six students are currently able to attend classes, while the rest have been sent home.
Robina appealed to the government and stakeholders for support to construct new classrooms.
Lydia Musungu, the District Education Officer (DEO) of Mbale District, confirmed the incident and revealed that since the rains began last month, three schools have had their roofs blown off. However, lack of funds has prevented them from being repaired or replaced.
END
