The Bishop of Namirembe Diocese, Bishop Moses Banja, has called for greater parental involvement in education during a recent tour of schools in Wakiso District, highlighting the growing concern of parents abdicating their responsibilities.
His visit included the inauguration of three new buildings at Namulonge Secondary School, funded by the Grant Thornton Foundation from India, which aim to improve learning conditions for students.
Speaking to parents and stakeholders, Bishop Banja stressed that while government support is important, it cannot replace the essential role of parents in actively supporting their children’s education.
“It is disheartening to witness a pervasive attitude where parents seem to believe that the government alone is solely responsible for their children’s education,” he said.
He emphasized that parental engagement goes beyond paying school fees and includes monitoring homework, communicating with teachers, ensuring attendance, fostering a love for learning, and providing moral and emotional support.
Bishop Banja also highlighted the financial realities facing schools, noting that the government’s allocation of Shs 50,000 per student per year is insufficient to cover all educational needs.
He urged parents to contribute through direct financial support, provision of learning materials, and creating a supportive home environment for students.
Representatives from the Grant Thornton Foundation, Ankit Jangla and Hemal Shah, expressed pride in contributing to the development of the school’s infrastructure and reaffirmed their commitment to supporting Uganda’s education sector.
Bishop Banja thanked the foundation for their contribution, noting that the new buildings address critical infrastructure needs, especially after strong winds damaged previous structures last year.
The Bishop’s message to parents was clear: “Take care of your child. Don’t relax thinking the government will provide everything. Do your part.”
His tour underscores the diocese’s proactive approach to supporting education and the importance of shared responsibility between parents, private partners, and the government in ensuring children’s academic success.
