The Embassy of Japan today, December 19, 2024, commissioned a newly constructed 5-classroom block at Aputon Primary School in Katakwi District, eastern Uganda.
The project, titled “The Project for the Construction of a Classroom Block at Aputon Primary School in Katakwi District,” commenced on February 20, 2024, with a grant of USD 69,336 from the Embassy of Japan, equivalent to over 256 Million Ugandan Shillings.
Aputon, a government primary school established in 1939 with support from missionary organizations, has been a cornerstone of education in the community for decades.
According to the school administration’s report at the time of applying to the GGP in 2023, the school had only 13 classrooms to accommodate its growing student population, leading to severe overcrowding. The number of pupils per classroom significantly exceeded the national standard of 53 students.
H.E. Mr. Takuya Sasayama, the Japanese Ambassador to Uganda, while officiating the function, stated that the GGP has funded 291 projects in Uganda since its inception in 1992, with the Katakwi project being the sixth to be implemented.
Ambassador Sasayama commended the school administration for having strong documentation that led to the successful funding.
“I would like to conclude my remarks by reiterating the pledge of the Government of Japan to continue supporting initiatives that seek to improve the welfare of people at the grassroots level in Uganda,” Ambassador Sasayama told the public.
Angella Atim, the District Education Officer for Katakwi, thanked the Japanese government for the funding and urged the school to make the best use of the new structure.
Meanwhile, Hon. Geoffrey Omolo, the District LC5 Chairperson for Katakwi, stated that the 5-classroom block will now enable the school administration to accommodate a larger number of children.
Omolo added that the block is one of the best in the district, which he believes has enhanced the district’s image.
District leaders were among those in attendance.
