Construction of the school began in early 2023 under the Uganda Intergovernmental Fiscal Transfers Programme (UGIFT) at a cost of Shs2.6 billion. The project was awarded to Skyworth Technology Service Limited with an expected completion period of 18 months.
However, the contractor failed to complete the works within the agreed timeline despite repeated engagements with district authorities. The company was subsequently directed to hand over the site, allowing another contractor, TIABSA, to complete the outstanding works.
The change of contractor was welcomed by local leaders and residents, who said the delays had denied learners access to a modern secondary school.
Kitagwenda Chief Administrative Officer Moses R.K. Dalili said the project is now in its final stages and is expected to reach full completion by the end of the week.
"The contractor is remaining with only a few minor works. We expect the project to reach 100 percent completion by the end of this week, after which we shall conduct a joint inspection with the relevant stakeholders before the final handover," Dalili said on Wednesday.
He said the district was satisfied with the progress of the remaining works and was optimistic that the school would soon be ready for occupation.
"This project is now at its final stage. Once the outstanding works are completed and inspected, the people of Kanara will finally receive the school they have been waiting for," Dalili added.
Residents and local leaders have welcomed the development, describing it as a major boost to education in the area.
They say the completion of the seed school will improve access to secondary education, reduce the long distances students travel to schools in neighbouring sub-counties, and ease the financial burden on parents.
Once commissioned, Kanara Seed Secondary School is expected to expand access to affordable secondary education and improve learning outcomes for students in Kitagwenda District.