Bituntu Primary School, a government-aided Church of Uganda-founded institution in Ruhaama, Ntungamo District, is grappling with severe infrastructure and staffing challenges that have raised concern among parents and local residents.
The school, which has operated for nearly 40 years, consists of three classroom blocks. Two of these are constructed from mud, reeds, and timber, while the only permanent government-built structure is ageing and in need of rehabilitation. The school office is also reported to be on the verge of collapse, raising safety concerns for both learners and staff.
Upon arrival at the school, signs of deterioration are evident, with learners studying in poorly constructed classrooms, some without windows or proper walls. During a visit, pupils were observed sitting on the floor in congested classrooms, while others reportedly study under trees due to overcrowding and harsh weather conditions.
According to Able Arinda, the NRM chairperson for Bituntu, the school is facing acute staffing and sanitation challenges.
“The school has no teachers, the parents have done their best to support it. The school has one toilet used by teachers, girls and boys,” Arinda said.
Residents say the situation has persisted for years with limited intervention, leaving learners in difficult conditions. Arinda appealed for urgent government support.
“The government should come to our rescue because pupils are still sitting on floors, others have no classrooms and they sit and study under trees,” he added.
Community members also expressed frustration over what they describe as declining learning standards and poor supervision of pupils. One resident, John Tumuramye, questioned the quality of instruction and oversight.
“They ask us for money, but I have found pupils monitored by another student. Who taught her?” he said.
Sanitation remains a major concern at the school, which relies on a single mud-built latrine shared by both pupils and teachers. Denis Muhwezi, who contributed to constructing the facility, expressed frustration over its continued use despite its poor condition.
“I constructed the first toilet, however it collapsed and then I built this. They are telling me that when Uganda gets to a better state, they will make better programs. I don't know when, but they are using this latrine,” he said.
Parents also cite a shortage of teachers, with only five government-paid staff handling a large number of learners. They say the staffing gap has left some classes unattended.
Simon Katambira, a parent and old boy of the school, said the shortage is affecting learning outcomes.
“There are no teachers. Surprisingly, I have found a pupil supporting the rest,” he said.
Despite the concerns, Ntungamo District Chief Administrative Officer Fedelis Kiiza acknowledged the challenges and said the district has planned phased interventions based on available resources.
“The challenge which was brought to our attention was poor sanitation facilities. Next financial year we are going to construct a five-stance pit latrine. In the following financial years, as funds allow, we shall be able to budget for structures or rehabilitate those already in the school,” Kiiza noted.