Several schools in Oyam and Ibanda districts have faced challenges in achieving first-grade results in Primary Leaving Examinations (PLE) over the past five years, according to recent statistics. Notably, Lela Olok, Ogaro, Lelapala, Aleka, Anget, and Bar-romo, government-sponsored schools in Aleka Sub-county, Oyam District, have reported no first-grade performances. Similarly, Mushunga Primary School in Ishongororo Town Council, Ibanda, has struggled with poor performance for the last four years, with no candidate scoring a first grade among the 30 registered for PLE in 2023.
Several factors contribute to these academic challenges. The automatic promotion policy, negative parental attitudes, teachers’ laxity, inadequate textbooks and desks, shortage of teachers’ accommodation, and lack of parents’ involvement have been identified as significant contributors to poor academic performance.
In specific cases, the head teacher of Lelapala Primary School, Mr. Joel Peter Onyutha, highlighted challenges such as parents’ negative attitude, lack of teachers’ accommodation, and students’ disinterest in education. Similar concerns were raised by Mr. Robert Odyek, the head teacher of Ogaro Primary School, indicating that parents’ lack of ownership and subsequent transfers to private schools contributed to poor academic results.
Mr. David Adea, Oyam senior education officer, acknowledged the challenges but declined to comment further. However, community learning centers established during the Covid-19 lockdown aim to address the educational gaps in the area, offering opportunities to learners during school holidays.
Efforts to improve academic performance include addressing the identified challenges and leveraging community learning centers to provide educational support to children in lower primary. The goal is to create a conducive learning environment and foster community involvement in the education sector.
