The Ambassador of Saudi Arabia to Uganda, Mohammed Bin Khalil Faroudah, has urged parents in Luweero District to take full responsibility for their children’s education, warning that neglect could expose them to negative influences.
Speaking while commissioning a new administration block at Lugo Orphanage Primary School in Lukomera, constructed by the Saudi-funded Muslim World League (MWL), the envoy stressed, “Parents must value education and keep their children in school, and learners should understand their purpose in school for a brighter future.”
He was accompanied by MWL Special Advisor Dr. Abdul Aziz Ahmad Sarhan, Uganda’s Ambassador to Sudan Dr. Rashid Ssemuddu, and other dignitaries. The delegation also donated rice, maize flour, and cooking oil to benefit the surrounding community.
Founded nearly 40 years ago to support orphans of the 1986 war in Luweero, the school has grown from just 36 pupils to 692, accommodating both Muslim and non-Muslim learners.
Head Teacher Muhammad Senabulya criticised parents who fail to provide basic requirements.
“Some parents assume the school will meet all needs because it has an orphanage, but this is straining our resources.”
He, however, applauded the MWL for its consistent support, saying it has greatly benefited disadvantaged pupils.
Luweero LC5 Chairperson Erasto Kibirango cautioned Muslim-founded schools against focusing solely on theology:
“Balance syllabus coverage to improve academic standards. Most government Muslim-founded primary schools in Luweero are not doing well because teachers over-focus on theology, and this is heavily affecting performance.”
Ambassador Ssemuddu urged Ugandans to safeguard peace ahead of the 2026 elections:
“Sudan has lost many things in the three years of unrest. We should avoid wars, especially as we approach the elections. Youth should not be misled we must maintain peace and harmony.”
MWL Country Director Mohamed G. Amum commended Uganda for fostering strong bilateral ties with Saudi Arabia:
“The government of Saudi Arabia has facilitated all the developments in this orphanage including construction of classroom blocks, a wall fence, purchase of textbooks, payment of salaries, and other necessities but we thank the government of Uganda for providing the good environment for the smooth running of our work and charity.”