Are Parents Ready For School Opening?

By Umar Nsubuga

(Published on Wednesday, January 5, 2022)

Schools are set to reopen next week for all classes after being closed for several months. Umar Nsubuga interviewed a cross-section of parents to find out how ready they are for schools reopening.

Gnatius Katto, Businessman In Isingiro District

I have two children and I had paid all tuition fees before schools were closed. I wonder what will happen with that fees. My prayer is that this time the Government can assure us that schools will not close again after we have paid tuition fees. My worry is paying fees and schools close again.

Asadu Miggade, Businessman:

I am concerned about the academics of my children. At the time of closing schools, one of my children was eight years now she is 10 and the other was 10 and now he is 12 years old. They have been out of school for a very long period of time.

Moses Wafula, Builder

I have four children and one was in Senior Four in a private school. I am not sure whether I will be in position to send him back, but still fighting because my boy is bright

Sarah Ayo, Bar Owner

With my business having been closed for such a long time, I no longer have capital. My son, who was in Primary Five, will wait to return to school until after bars have been reopened.

Allan Kitetika, Welder

I have been grappling with what to feed my family and now with the reopening of schools, I am not sure where I will get the school fees. I am considering getting a loan for this.

Robinah Nalugo, Retailer:

I am financially constrained, but working around the clock to ensure that my child returns to school. My daughter is a candidate and was performing well. I am praying she continues on that path.

Charles Chemutai, Kapchorwa:

I have three candidates and I am struggling to raise their tuition fees.

Norman Kiptala, Kween

I have three grandchildren joining school. Right now I do not have money to pay for registration and tuition fees for all

Agnes Munerya, Kapchorwa

I appreciate the government’s decision to have our children back to school. We need to pray for our country, children and teachers.

Eric Mukhwana, Information Minister For Bamasaaba Cultural Institution

Although some parents may not be able to take their children back to school due to lack of tuition fees, as cultural leaders, we encourage them to work as hard as possible so their children do not drop out of school.

Hellen Biira, Nursing Officer In Kasese

As a single mother, I am ready to take my children back to school. But schools owners should know that COVID-19 has affected all of us. They must know that these are unprecedented times and many parents are experiencing financial difficulties. So they should be patient with us.

Daniel Katumba, Mechanic

I am happy a new term is going to start. I have enrolled my three children in boarding school to protect them from the risk of COVID-19 that comes with commuting daily. I have been planning for a while and have covered the school requirements. What’s remaining is the school fees.

Beatrice Nkwenge, Counsellor, Nurse

My last born may not return to school. The child had a scholarship from a non-government organisation, but when COVID-19 hit, that opportunity was lost. My salary is insufficient to cater for school dues and home needs. I am believing it will be well by God’s grace

Margret Atwine, A Farmer In Bushenyi District

I am a single mother and during the lockdown, I was farming with my children. Although I have been facing many challenges, I am ready to take back my children to school because I want them educated to have a better life

Christine Alija, Rugasali Village In Kagadi District

I am glad that schools are finally reopening. I am ready to take my children back, but worried about schools raising tuition fees. My heart bleeds for the learners who will be left behind because of various challenges.

Margret Chelengati, Local Leader In Kween District

All stakeholders need to rekindle the children’s enthusiasm for school, while also addressing any concerns they have. This will enable them settle in quickly and maintain a positive attitude about their education.

WHAT OTHER PARENTS SAY

Jackson Ngania, Village Leader In Bukwo

My main concern is children’s safety when they return to school. I am concerned how children will be protected from COVID-19, especially as they interact with their friends that they have missed for a very long period of time. Children are being told about standard operating procedures such as handwashing, keeping social distance and wearing masks, but will this be enforced strictly?

Julius Kalanzi, A Farmer

It is my responsibility as a parent to give my children good education. The only thing I worry about is safety for my children. There is need for deliberate steps to protect our children from COVID-19 as they walk home, take school vans, use public means of transport or in boarding school.