By KT Reporter
Local leaders in Kisoro District have expressed frustration over the prolonged delay in converting the defunct Kisoro Primary Teachers College (PTC) into a health training institute. Established on July 2, 1982, Kisoro PTC was among the 22 teacher training colleges phased out by the government in 2023.
Following its closure, the Kisoro District Council resolved to repurpose the facility into a health training institute affiliated with Kabale University. However, leaders say the resolution has not been implemented, leaving the college compound idle. Locals now use the land for grazing livestock, while abandoned buildings have become venues for night prayers and wedding ceremonies.
James Kazungu, the LC1 Chairperson of Bikoro Village in Busamba Ward, Southern Division, where the defunct college is located, said the premises have been neglected, allowing residents to graze animals freely. He questioned why the district resolution to transform it into a nursing institute has not yet taken effect.
Emmanuel Ndayisaba, the district councilor representing Nyakinama Sub-county, blamed top district leaders for failing to follow up with the central government to ensure the resolution is implemented. Juliet Musanase, a resident of Kisoro Municipality, argued that establishing the institute would not only provide healthcare training but also create jobs and stimulate the local economy by attracting new markets for goods and services.
Kisoro District LC5 Chairperson Abel Bizimana attributed the delay to political disagreements among district leaders but assured the public that progress is being made. He said Kabale University is awaiting a final approval letter from the Ministry of Education and Sports to officially take over the facility. Bizimana also warned that grazing livestock on the land amounts to trespassing on government property.
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