Some of the remaining Furniture in one of the Blocks at Rwamabale primary school
Ntoroko district authorities have decried the devastating effects of being a refugee-hosting community. According to the authorities, they are facing a number of challenges, some of which are likely to hinder the resumption of schools once the government reopens them following the ongoing influx of refugees from the Democratic Republic of Congo.
William Kasoro the Ntoroko District LC V chairperson, says that he was shocked when he went to inspect some of the schools hosting refugees and found them vandalized beyond recognition. According to Kasoro, the refugees at Rwamabale primary school have used 80 percent of furniture for firewood. Kasoro says it is a big blow to the school with more than 720 learners.
“I have ceaselessly advised the office of the prime minister to build us a mini refugee camp in Ntoroko in vain. We don’t have funds at the moment to fix the mess caused by the refugees at some of our schools,” he said. Kasoro says that two schools in Bweramule Sub County need major renovations before studies resume.
Maureen Kusemererwa, the Ntoroko District Senior Inspector of schools, says UNHCR has promised to renovate the schools and replace the furniture.
Kusemererwa says that recently the Ministry of Education issued a circular to all accounting officers to release 50% of the school capitation grant to enable schools to prepare for reopening.
Kasoro wants his district to be given special attention ahead of the academic calendar noting that schools like Rwangara, Umoja, and Kachwankumu primarily schools were submerged by lake Albert.
David Akor, the chairperson of Kanara town council, says that despite notifying the district education office they have not registered any help. He says most parents and learners are currently staying in IDP camps in Kanara Town council without any hope.
–URN
