NYAKASHARU, RUBIRIZI – Deputy Resident District Commissioner Robina Mirembe has urged parents and teachers in Rubirizi District to avoid harsh corporal punishment at school and at home. She said such practices can cause learners to drop out of school, lose confidence, and make harmful decisions.
Speaking during a parents and teachers meeting at Ndekye Senior Secondary School, Madam Mirembe delivered a strong warning against beating learners excessively. She urged adults to use guidance and positive discipline instead.
In the same meeting, Biiru Stivin Warufu, District Education Officer Rubirizi, called for better relationships through guidance and counseling. He asked teachers to show learners love, care, advice, and good behavior, and to always guide learners to protect their rights.
“The district must protect learners from stress and prevent early school dropouts. The Education Act is clear — torturing learners with corporal punishment is not a solution. It is time for mediation, forgiveness, and reconciliation,” Mr. Warufu said.
He urged learners facing challenges to talk to religious leaders, teachers, parents, or relatives before making harmful decisions. He said the education department has started a campaign in schools and communities to sensitize parents and youth about the dangers of self-harm, drug abuse, and domestic violence. The campaign will also provide career guidance and counseling to help learners love school and stay focused.
Rev. Canon Yorokamu Tayebwa, Archdeacon of Ndekye Archdeaconry, highlighted factors that cause learners stress, including academic pressure, family conflict, lack of love at home and school, and substance abuse. He appealed for counseling and emotional support for learners struggling with untreated stress or depression.
