The bishop of Mukono Diocese, Enos Kitto Kagodo, has made a decision to prohibit promenade dances and parties in church-founded schools. He explained that he received negative reports concerning such events.
Reports suggest that “coupling” and drug abuse are common occurrences during these prom parties. Some students reportedly use drugs on this day specifically to overcome shyness.
Promenade, commonly known as prom, is a dance party for high school students. In recent times, schools in Uganda have been favoring a red carpet event where male participants wear formal black ties and suits while girls wear evening gowns. This event usually takes place towards the end of the school year.
Bishop Kagodo expressed his concerns, stating that he has observed a trend of indiscipline and improper behavior promoted by these parties across different schools. He questioned the origin and purpose of these events, noting their tendency to encourage coupling and other negative behaviors among students.
The bishop addressed the issue during a meeting with headteachers from church-owned schools in Mukono, Buikwe, Buvuma, and Kayunga districts. Mukono Diocese oversees a total of 270 church-owned schools.
He highlighted the negative consequences of prom parties on students’ education, citing instances where some students jeopardize their academic careers due to the proceedings of these events. The bishop lamented the fact that some students end up engaging in risky behaviors or even becoming pregnant as a result of prom-related activities.
Susan Wamala Sserunkuuma, the chairperson of the Mukono diocesan headteachers’ association and headteacher of Mukono Boarding Primary School, echoed the bishop’s sentiments. She acknowledged that while prom parties were initially intended for secondary schools, the concept has now extended to some primary schools, including those preparing for Primary Seven examinations.
Recent events have sparked controversy, with social media abuzz about extravagant displays by students from a school in Bwebajja, Wakiso district. Some students reportedly arrived at the prom venue using a helicopter, while others flaunted expensive cars. This behavior has been criticized by the public and the Ministry of Education.
Dr. John Chrysostom Muyingo, the State Minister for Higher Education, condemned such extravagant acts, describing them as unacceptable. He questioned the message being conveyed to children and expressed concern about the direction society is heading in. Muyingo emphasized the importance of responsible use of resources, stating that such lavish spending sends the wrong message, especially considering the scarcity of resources for many families.
