RUBIRIZI, UGANDA – Rubirizi District Education Officer Mr. Biiru Stivin Warufu has warned that pupils found loitering during class time will be arrested, as the district moves to curb rising school dropouts.
Speaking during a Parents and Teachers General Meeting at Mugyera Primary School in Katerera Town Council on 12 June 2026, Mr. Biiru said security agencies, local leaders, and parish chiefs have been instructed to conduct patrols and arrest any student found in trading centers, markets, and bars during school hours.
He urged parents to play a key role in instilling good moral values to help children fight ignorance, corruption, poverty, theft, and illiteracy. Mr. Biiru also cautioned learners against early marriages and drug abuse, saying both undermine child development and limit future opportunities.
“Young people should stay focused in order to achieve their goals,” he said.
Mugyera Primary School Headteacher Mr. Tumuhimbise Stivin called on parents to prioritize education and ensure regular attendance, describing current education as an investment in families. He presented the school’s academic performance, work plan, and challenges from last year’s PLE exams, noting that the school registered 27 pupils in Grade One and 30 in Grade Two.
Mr. Tumuhimbise warned that school absenteeism is against the law and urged students to remain disciplined, respectful, and focused. He asked parents to work closely with school administrators and teach children respect, love, and discipline to help them grow into responsible citizens.
Madam Max Tumusiime, Chairperson of the School Management Committee, and Mr. Edward Byaruhanga, Chairperson of the School PTA, thanked parents for attending. They said parents agreed and signed a memorandum of understanding with school administrators committing to better time management for their children, reducing absenteeism, and paying school fees on time.
They warned that parents who neglect their responsibilities will face action under school rules, and emphasized that education is a long-term benefit for personal growth, economic stability, and social development.
Reported By: Tugume Muzafaru
