MPs want statement from government on re-opening of schools

Members of Parliament want Government to present comprehensive statement on plans for the reopening of schools.  

Kalungu West MP Joseph Ssewungu raised a matter of national importance during plenary on Thursday saying that parents have been left in the dark and do not know the fate of their children.

According to Hon. Ssewungu, there has not been any report on the effects of the school opening for the candidate classes and whether COVID-19 has increased or has been contained.

he argues that the internet blackout affected the online classes. 

The National Council of Higher Education -NCHE Executive Director, Professor Mary Okwakol on Wednesday said that Higher Institutions of learning will not open after the next three months.

The communication is based on advice from the Minister of Education and Sports Janet Kataha Museveni who says she was also advised by the scientists.

However, Geoffrey Macho the Busia Municipality MP says that Kenya has opened schools and Ugandan parents need to be informed of any progress.

Prime Minister Ruhakana Rugunda told the house that it is not correct that Government is silent on the matter as the education sector has been thoroughly monitored by the Government since the outbreak and closure of schools in March 2020.

Speaker of Parliament Rebecca Kadaga tasked Government to bring a comprehensive statement on opening schools on Tuesday next week.

Currently students and pupils depend on online classes except for candidates who were allowed to return to school and sit their final examinations. Some parents have been heard complaining about having to pay coaching fees and internet costs.