Several schools in Tororo District registered low learner turnout on the first day of reopening for the 2026 academic year, raising concern among education administrators over potential disruptions to learning.
At St Peter’s College, fewer than 100 students had reported back by the close of the first day, out of more than 700 continuing learners expected.
School administrators described the situation as worrying, particularly given the school’s flexible approach to school fees payment.
Headteacher Luke Emuron said failure to pay school fees may not be the primary reason for the poor turnout, noting that the school allows parents to engage management and make payment commitments where necessary.
“We encourage parents to communicate with us where challenges arise, and we do not insist on full payment before reporting,” Emuron said.
A similar trend was observed at Tororo Girls’ Secondary School, where only about 400 students had reported by press time out of more than 1,500 continuing learners expected.
Headmistress Beatrice Akware partly attributed the low turnout to the Ministry of Education’s decision to set the reporting date on a Tuesday, a normal working day.
She explained that many parents prefer to personally escort their children to school, which may have delayed reporting as some parents were still at work.
“At the start of term, many parents want to bring their children themselves, especially boarders. With reporting falling on a weekday, this affected turnout,” Akware said.
Majansi High School recorded a relatively better turnout compared to previous years, with about 200 students reporting out of the more than 600 expected.
Headteacher David Sedialo said confusion over the school calendar may have contributed to delayed reporting, as some parents were uncertain about the official reopening date.
Education officials say low turnout was reported across nearly 180 learning institutions in the district.
In some government-aided schools, the situation was compounded by reports of learners being sent away over school fees, despite government guidance discouraging such practices at the beginning of term.
The Deputy Resident District Commissioner for Tororo, Albert Amula, acknowledged the challenge and urged cooperation between school administrators and parents to ensure learners are allowed to settle into the term without unnecessary barriers.
“Schools and parents must work together to make sure children report and settle early so learning is not disrupted,” Amula said.
School administrators warn that prolonged low attendance could negatively affect learner performance, particularly if students miss critical lessons at the start of the term.
They are now appealing to parents and guardians to ensure learners report back to school promptly to allow for smooth adjustment to the academic calendar.
