The facility, constructed by ATC Uganda at a cost of about Shs120 million, replaces old and dilapidated structures that had posed safety risks to learners for years at the school, which was established in 1958.
State Minister for Primary Education Joyce Moriku Kaducu commissioned the classrooms on Tuesday, describing the investment as timely amid rising enrolment in Universal Primary Education (UPE) schools across the country.
“Education remains one of the most powerful tools for national transformation, social cohesion and long-term economic growth,” she said, noting that enrolment has increased significantly since the introduction of UPE in 1997.
The school currently has over 900 pupils, with numbers expected to grow further following the improvement in infrastructure.
Headteacher Francis Okelo said the school has recorded a sharp rise in enrolment from about 724 learners last year to over 900 this year, attributing the increase to improved learning conditions.
He noted that in the past, pupils were forced to study in unsafe, condemned structures, with lessons frequently disrupted during heavy rains and strong winds.
“Learning was not consistent because we had to disperse pupils whenever it rained heavily. The situation was dangerous,” Okelo said.
In addition to the classroom block, ATC Uganda also donated medical equipment worth Shs50 million to Kapelebyong Health Centre IV to strengthen maternal and neonatal healthcare services. The equipment includes beds, oxygen concentrators, and other essential supplies.
Dr. Kaducu highlighted the link between education and health, saying improved healthcare contributes to better learning outcomes for children.
District leaders, led by LC5 Chairperson Francis Akorikin, welcomed the interventions, saying they will significantly improve service delivery in both sectors.
ATC Uganda said the support is part of its corporate social responsibility programme aimed at improving community welfare in areas where it operates.
The minister urged parents to ensure children attend school regularly and called on the community to protect the new facilities for long-term benefit.