Once a beacon of academic excellence in West Nile and beyond, Moyo Senior Secondary School, established in 1966, is now grappling with a sharp decline in student enrollment, dilapidated infrastructure, and inadequate teaching staff.
From hosting thousands of learners in its prime, the school currently has fewer than 400 students, signalling a need for urgent intervention.
Over the decades, Moyo SS has produced some of the most resourceful individuals now serving in various professional fields across the globe.
However, the present condition of the school paints a stark contrast to its proud history.
The school’s classrooms, staff quarters, library, science laboratories, and hygiene facilities are in a state of disrepair.
Cracks run through walls, roofs leak during rains, and sanitation facilities are insufficient for the student population.
Efforts to carry out rehabilitation have been hindered by a lack of funds, leaving the school administration and stakeholders in distress.
Recognising the dire situation, the school's alumni have rallied under a renewed call to action aimed at restoring Moyo SS to its former glory.
Board of Governors Chairperson Ernest Zira Tibaku, during a recent stakeholders' meeting, expressed concern over the school’s declining standards but lauded the alumni for stepping up.
"This school is a heritage, not only to Moyo District but the entire West Nile region. What we see today is a result of prolonged neglect. But with unity of purpose, we can rebuild what was once a shining star in Uganda’s education landscape," Tibaku said.
Samuel Tako, Chairperson of the Moyo S.S. Alumni Association, emphasised the need for collective responsibility.
"We are mobilising resources, skills, and networks to uplift the standards of our former school. This is not just about structures; it’s about restoring dignity, hope, and opportunity to the learners of today and tomorrow," Tako said.
Teachers at the school, though committed, are overwhelmed due to understaffing.
The teacher-student ratio has widened, affecting learning outcomes.
Anthony Vuciri Eberu, the head teacher of Moyo Secondary School, highlighted the challenges faced on the ground.
“Motivation is low, but we keep going because we believe change is possible. We are glad the alumni are standing with us," he said.
Among the many alumni contributing to the revival is Stephen Koma, the commissioner for districts in the Ministry of Local Government.
"Moyo S.S. shaped my career and values. When I walked through its gates, I saw potential, not broken walls. We owe it to the next generation to give them that same sense of possibility," Koma said.
The alumni are now engaging local government leaders, development partners, and well-wishers to contribute towards infrastructural rehabilitation, improving staffing, and reviving co-curricular activities that once made the school a centre of excellence.
As efforts to resuscitate the school gain momentum, the community remains hopeful that Moyo Senior Secondary School will rise again — stronger and better than before.