By KT Reporter
Primary head teachers in the Karamoja sub-region have called for the fencing of schools to protect learners and staff from security threats. The teachers say the unpredictable security situation in the region has left schools vulnerable to unauthorized access, disrupting learning.
Phoebe Acham, Head Teacher of Pilas Primary School in Napak District, emphasized that fencing is essential for safeguarding teachers and pupils, and for preventing invasions into school compounds. “I want to bring to the attention of the government that fencing schools is the only way to protect the children and provide a secure environment where teachers can focus on teaching and not have to handle our children,” Acham said.
She added that many schools are located in remote areas, making them susceptible to clashes between armed warriors and security forces, and turning school grounds into unsafe spaces. Fencing, she said, would also help prevent child abuse, forced marriages, and trafficking.
Rev. Fr. Isaac Izakare, Chairperson of the School Management Committee at Longalom Primary School, said urgent fencing is needed to keep learners safe from external threats. Izakare noted that many schools operate in open spaces where pupils often mingle with shepherds and livestock. This exposes them to abduction for marriage or trafficking.
He also said unfenced schools contribute to truancy and children abandoning education. “When I move to ensure that our schools are fenced, we shall be happy that learners are secure and their education uninterrupted,” Izakare said.
John Bosco Agilu, Napak District Speaker, said the district lacks a budget for school fencing and is appealing to development partners for support. He noted that fenced schools proved essential during previous child repatriation efforts from Kampala, as they allowed authorities to restrict movement and protect the children. “The fencing we are advocating for cannot solve all problems, but it will go a long way in protecting our learners,” Agilu said.
Alfred Kyaka, Assistant Commissioner in charge of Secondary Education, said the government has taken note of the need for fencing in Karamoja. He confirmed that the Ministry of Education is prioritizing fencing schools under the operations and maintenance budget, starting with seed schools before scaling to other institutions.
In 2024, security threats from armed cattle rustlers in Moroto District forced the suspension of three primary schools. The lack of fencing also led nearby communities to seek refuge in schools, disrupting learning and compromising safety.
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