UGANDA, Buyende | Real Muloodi News | Buyende Seed Secondary School in Buyende District received assistance from Minister for Presidency Milly Babalanda in the form of 150 bags of cement to begin constructing a girls’ dormitory. The move was prompted by concerns regarding the girls’ accommodation, as they had been staying in grass-thatched hostels due to longstanding challenges with housing.
Last month, Fortunate Kisakye, chairperson of the Girls’ Empowerment Movement (GEM), and Hope Hadaasha, coordinator of Peer Educators and Mentors, expressed their concerns to Babalanda during the delayed Women’s Day celebrations. They mentioned feeling insecure while sleeping in grass-thatched hostels.
On Tuesday 29th April 2024, Babalanda handed over the cement to the school and called for the protection of the Girl Child against “inhibiting factors” to secure their future.
In a speech delivered by Buyende Resident District Commissioner Maj. (Rtd) Betty Akello Otekat on behalf of Babalanda, the minister said it was concerning to see the girls’ struggle to attain education highlighted on social media.
Babalanda emphasised that providing accommodation at the school would allow the girls to concentrate on their studies and avoid long commutes that could leave them vulnerable.
She acknowledged media reports that highlighted the need for policy change regarding seed schools, which initially did not include dormitory facilities.
She also praised Plan International for empowering and mentoring the girls to advocate for themselves and urged the Girls’ Empowerment Movement and Peer Educators to hold counselling sessions during school breaks.
Buyende District LC5 chairperson, noted that many students cycle long distances to attend school, which led some girls to seek accommodation in the area, including in grass-thatched hostels.
Kanaku praised the Ministry of Education for providing the seed school and Babalanda for her swift response. He added that the district allocated UGX 60 million for school renovations while continuing to seek additional funding.
Buyende District Education Officer, Dison Bwire, expressed appreciation for the minister’s response to the situation and emphasised the importance of supporting the girls’ initiative.
Deputy headteacher Besweri Ndikabona called on the government to complement the efforts of parents and stakeholders by constructing a dormitory.
Ndikabona highlighted the need for accommodation for the school’s student population of 1,543, which includes 882 girls and 761 boys. He stressed the importance of prioritising support for rural and remote schools.
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