Administrators at Lake Katwe Secondary School, working together with local leaders, have appealed to the Ministry of Education and Sports to introduce an Advanced Level (A’ Level) section at the institution, saying the upgrade is crucial for expanding access to higher education in the area.
The call was made on Wednesday by the Assistant Resident District Commissioner (RDC) for Busongora County, Henry Kabiriri, during a visit by Mr. and Mrs. Englid and Matts, key funders of the Katwe Education Organisation from Norway. Kabiriri noted that Lake Katwe Secondary School is the only secondary institution in Katwe-Kabatooro Town Council, and the absence of an A’ Level wing forces learners to drop out after Senior Four due to limited alternatives.
“If this request is granted, it will significantly reduce school dropouts because many parents cannot afford to send their children to distant schools offering A’ Level,” Kabiriri said.
Head teacher Jolly Muhindo echoed the concern, explaining that financial constraints among parents have hindered efforts to expand the school. She urged the government to increase funding to support the construction of additional classroom blocks and other facilities needed for an A’ Level section. Muhindo also encouraged parents, especially those working at the nearby landing site, to prioritise education despite economic challenges.
Steven Mugisa, the LC1 chairperson of Kyakitale Cell, appealed to the government to complement the Norwegian project by offering scholarships to local learners. He said such support would motivate both children and parents to remain committed to education.
Lake Katwe Secondary School currently has an enrolment of 334 students, with only 17 of the 35 teaching staff on the government payroll. The rest are supported through school and community contributions.