RUKUNJIRI CAO SUSPENDS EXTRA CHARGES IN GOVERNMENT SCHOOLS

BY KWERONDA AMBROSE

www.mknewslink.com

The Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) for Rukunjiri Hajji Swalihk Masokoyi Wasswa has suspended all extra charges imposed on parents in government primary schools across the district.

Masokoyi made the announcement in a meeting with Rukungiri district primary schools head teachers which was held at Makobore High school located at Kinyasano hill in Western division Rukungiri Municipality.

He explained that the decision was prompted by complaints from parents and top government officials about excessive fees being charged by head teachers.

According to Masokoyi, the only approved charge is UGX 10,000, which is meant for central exams, as agreed upon by district officials. He emphasized that the district is responsible for overseeing and evaluating these exams.

During the meeting, Masokoyi asked the chairperson of the Rukungiri Primary Head Teachers Association, Musasizi Herbert, to clarify the other fees being collected from parents.

Musasizi admitted that parents were being asked to pay for night watchmen, evening and weekend remedial lessons, tests, and building funds.

In response, Masokoyi stated that these additional charges were not approved by the District Executive Committee (DEC), district council, or district education authorities. He added that they also go against the government’s education policy.

Meanwhile, the Assistant Resident District Commissioner, Mabel Karazarwe Mirembe who was the chief Guest, cautioned head teachers against sending pupils home for failing to pay school fees. She stressed that such actions negatively impact children’s education.