Local Government Minister Hon. Balaam Barugahara and State Minister Hon. Justine Nameere Nsubuga were left deeply emotional after visiting Kajuna Primary School in Buwunga Sub-County, Masaka District, where pupils are studying under extremely difficult conditions due to a shortage of classrooms.
The ministers were reportedly shocked after finding learners seated outside under trees and open spaces because the school does not have enough classrooms to accommodate the growing number of pupils.
The heartbreaking situation attracted attention as Balaam and Nameere toured the school to assess challenges affecting education and service delivery in the area.
According to officials at the school, many pupils are forced to study in the open air, exposing them to harsh weather conditions such as heavy rains and strong sunshine during learning hours.
The situation raised questions among leaders and members of the public about the state of education infrastructure in some government schools across the country.
During the visit, Balaam and Nameere expressed sadness over the condition of the learners, with reports indicating that the situation moved them to tears.
The ministers questioned how children could effectively concentrate and achieve good academic performance while studying in such challenging environments.
Their visit has sparked debate among Ugandans, with some questioning whether Education Minister Janet Museveni and State Minister for Higher Education JC Muyingo are doing enough to address challenges affecting schools.
Some critics argued that the education sector requires urgent attention, especially in rural areas where many schools continue to struggle with inadequate classrooms, teachers and learning materials.
Others said the situation at Kajuna Primary School represents a bigger national problem that requires increased government investment in education infrastructure.
Balaam and Nameere promised to raise the concerns with relevant authorities and push for solutions that would improve the learning environment for the pupils.
They emphasized that every Ugandan child deserves access to a safe and decent classroom where they can study without unnecessary challenges.
The ministers also encouraged local leaders to continue identifying pressing issues affecting communities so that government interventions can be directed where they are most needed.
Parents and residents of Buwunga Sub-County reportedly welcomed the visit, saying they have for years struggled with the poor learning conditions at the school.
They appealed to the government to prioritize the construction of classrooms and other facilities to support both learners and teachers.
The situation at Kajuna Primary School has once again highlighted concerns about the gap between government education policies and the reality faced by many rural schools.
While Uganda has continued to expand access to education, challenges such as inadequate infrastructure remain a major obstacle in many communities.
Education experts have often warned that poor learning environments can affect pupils’ concentration, attendance and overall academic performance.
The emotional reaction from the ministers has increased pressure on authorities to act quickly and ensure that affected schools receive support.
Many Ugandans are now waiting to see whether the government will provide immediate assistance to Kajuna Primary School and other schools facing similar challenges.
The visit has renewed discussions about accountability, leadership and the need for stronger action to improve Uganda’s education system.
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