On Friday, September 23, 2023, police officers were called to Green Valley High School – Ssukka in Kayunga Sub County to address a student strike. The students claimed that they had not seen any teachers in class for the previous term and the first four days of the third term.
The school, which has around 300 students, faced challenges in repaying a bank loan. To address this, the school’s proprietor, Mr. Walulya, brought in a business partner.
During the protest, students held placards and locked up one of the school’s directors, known only as Abdul. They also attempted to throw stones at him. Abdul, who arrived at the school during the strike, was prevented from leaving the school premises.
The students expressed their frustration by shouting, “We have already paid school fees, but we have not had lessons since mid-last term. No classes, no peace.”
The situation was eventually brought under control by anti-riot police from Kayunga Central Police Station, preventing any damage to school property.
Following the incident, school directors and some teachers held a meeting with security personnel. Kayunga District Police Commander (DPC), Ms. Rosette Sikahwa, reported that no arrests were made, and they were investigating the students’ claims.
“We are still investigating to establish whether what the students are saying has any truth. The students are there to study and not to waste time,” she stated.
One of the school’s directors accused some teachers of inciting the students to strike. He defended the school’s commitment to providing quality education at a low cost.
After the meeting with staff and security, the school management addressed the students. Mr. William Ssematta, the school’s Director of Studies, apologized to the students for the missed lessons and assured them that such a situation would not happen again.
